In a heartbreaking incident in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district, 11 people lost their lives when a car carrying them veered off the road and plunged into a canal. The victims, reportedly on the way to a religious pilgrimage, were trapped as the vehicle sank in deep waters.
Despite local efforts to rescue the occupants, all died before help could arrive.
How the Incident Occurred?
Early on Sunday, August 3, 2025, a Bolero SUV carrying 15 passengers, mainly devotees from the same family, veered off the Sihaganj–Khargupur road under Motiganj police station and plunged into the Saryu canal near Gonda.
The vehicle was en route to the Prithvinath Temple, carrying water as part of a religious ritual.
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Casualties & Victims
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11 people died, including women, men, and children.
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4 others were critically injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.
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Deceased victims have been identified as:
Bina (35), Kajal (22), Mehak (12), Durgesh, Nandini, Ankit, Shubh, Sanju Verma, Anju, Anasuiya, and Soumya.
Rescue Efforts
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Local residents first heard the screams and initiated rescue efforts, breaking the vehicle’s windows as the Bolero sank.
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Police and villagers collaborated; CPR was administered on site but most victims couldn’t be revived
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The submerged vehicle remains in the canal; nearly 100 personnel across several police stations are involved in removal and ongoing operations
CM Yogi offers condolences
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
He also directed local authorities to ensure prompt assistance and extended prayers for the departed souls. The incident underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures in rural areas.
The CM also announced a cash assistance of ₹5 lakh for the families of each deceased victim.
Cause & Investigation
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Initial investigations suggest possible overloading, poor road safety compliance, and administrative lapses may have contributed to the accident.
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A formal police investigation has been launched to determine exact causes and assess accountability
