Mathura

At least 10 people lost their lives after a boat carrying more than two dozen passengers crashed into a pontoon bridge on the Yamuna River near Keshi Ghat in Mathura on Friday.

Police officials said around 25–27 individuals were onboard at the time of the incident, which occurred in the afternoon.

Mathura DIG Shailesh Kumar Pandey stated that the accident took place at approximately 3:15 PM near a pontoon bridge. Preliminary findings based on eyewitness accounts suggest that the boat collided with the structure, leading to the tragedy. He confirmed that 10 bodies have been recovered so far, while rescue efforts remain ongoing. Teams from the fire department, police, local divers, and boatmen are engaged in search and rescue operations. Personnel from the NDRF and SDRF have also been dispatched to assist in the operation.

SP Rural Suresh Chandra Rawat said that 22 people have been rescued and shifted to nearby hospitals using ambulances and police response vehicles. Authorities are continuing to assess the situation to determine the number of survivors and victims.

Rawat added that the pontoon bridge was undergoing repairs at the time, and the accident may be linked to the ongoing maintenance work in the area.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and said that local authorities are providing assistance to those affected.

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath termed the incident deeply tragic and expressed his condolences to the bereaved families. He said officials have been directed to reach the site immediately, carry out rescue and relief operations, and ensure proper medical care for the injured.