Eight Die, Three Rescued After Drowning Incident in Tonk's Banas River; Chief Minister Expresses Grief
Rajasthan: A tragic incident occurred in Tonk district, Rajasthan, on Tuesday, resulting in the death of eight people who drowned in the Banas River. The incident took place when eleven friends from Jaipur, who had gone for a picnic, entered the river for a swim. Tonk police swiftly launched a rescue operation, saving three individuals who are now reported to be in stable condition. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region.
How Did the Accident Happen?
A heartbreaking accident unfolded in Tonk district's Banas River on Tuesday. A group of eleven friends, aged between 25 and 30, had traveled from Jaipur for a picnic. Their joyous outing turned tragic when they ventured into the river for a swim and encountered unexpectedly deep waters. Tonk's Superintendent of Police (SP), Vikas Sangwan, stated that eight of the eleven individuals drowned, while three were rescued.
Police and locals immediately initiated a rescue operation. All eleven individuals were retrieved from the river and transported to a nearby hospital. However, doctors pronounced eight dead. The three survivors are stable and under medical observation.
What Caused the Accident?
According to police, the exact circumstances leading to their submersion remain unclear. The Banas River is quite deep in certain areas, and its current and water level increase significantly during the monsoon season. It is suspected the friends may have been unaware of the river's depth and inadvertently ventured into a deeper section.
SP Vikas Sangwan confirmed the group's arrival from Jaipur for a picnic and that the accident occurred during their swim. Police have launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the incident – whether negligence or the river's conditions were primarily responsible. A full understanding will emerge only after the investigation is complete.
Who Were the Deceased?
Police confirmed the victims were Jaipur residents, all young adults between 25 and 30 years old, enjoying a picnic with friends. Their names and other personal details have not yet been publicly released, as police are contacting their families. The tragedy has deeply shocked their families and friends.
Rescue Operation and Police Action
Upon receiving news of the accident, Tonk police immediately launched a rescue operation, assisted by local residents. All eleven individuals were recovered from the river and rushed to the hospital. Despite medical efforts, eight lives could not be saved.
SP Vikas Sangwan reported that the three survivors are now stable. The police investigation is underway to ascertain whether any warning signs were present in the river or if another factor contributed to the accident. Police are contacting the families of the deceased and providing all possible support.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma's Statement
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed profound grief over the tragic incident. He shared a post on the social media platform X, stating his sorrow at the Tonk tragedy. He offered condolences to the bereaved families and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. The CM also stated that the administration has been instructed to take all necessary steps in this matter.
