A routine journey home from farmland turned into a tragedy on Monday evening when a boat carrying seven people capsized in the fast-flowing waters of the Ramganga River in Uttar Pradesh’s Arwal region. The accident left two children dead and one still missing, casting a pall of grief over the affected village.
According to local officials, the boat was ferrying members of two farming families—relatives of Divari Lal and Balram Fere—back from their fields when it lost balance while crossing a particularly strong current of the Kunda tributary. The passengers, including four adults and three children, were thrown into the water.
Swift Local Response, Grim Outcome
Villagers nearby responded immediately, managing to rescue four of the occupants—Divari Lal, Suman, Nirmal, and Kajal—from the turbulent river. However, three children—Shivam (14), Sunaina (8), and their cousin Sonika (13)—were swept away.
District authorities launched a rescue operation late into the night, aided by local divers. By morning, the bodies of Shivam and Sunaina were recovered. However, Sonika, who had recently arrived at her maternal grandparents’ home for a visit, remains missing.
“The children were caught in the strongest part of the current,” said a member of the rescue team, requesting anonymity. “We are continuing the search for the missing girl with all available resources.”
Search Operations Ongoing
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Sanjay Agrahari visited the scene and confirmed that post-mortem procedures were underway for the deceased. “We’ve expedited the search for the missing child. All efforts are being made,” he told the media.
Calls for Greater River Safety
The incident has sparked fresh calls from villagers for improved safety measures on river crossings frequently used by farmers. Many expressed frustration that despite regular use of boats to cross rivers, local authorities have not established any regulated safety protocols.
“The river’s current has always been strong during this season,” said a villager. “Yet, no life jackets, no government boats, and no guardrails. How many more lives will it take?”
The tragedy has left the village in mourning. Wails of grieving family members echoed through the lanes as neighbors gathered in silent solidarity.
Endless Wait
As dusk fell, the search for Sonika continued. For her family, it is a wait filled with hope—and fear.
