16 dead after boat capsizes in a lake in Gujarat's Vadodara

At least 16 people drowned when a boat capsized Thursday in Vadodara's Harni Motnath Lake, officials said, with a search on to find more of the missing. As many as 10 children were rescued.

The victims include children aged as young as 10, along with one of their teachers, an official from Vadodara district involved in rescue operations, who did not give their name, told AFP.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 Lakhs each from PMNRF to the next of kin of deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.


Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has expressed his condolences at the tragedy.

"More than 10 rescued so far," said Gujarat Minister Rushikesh Patel.


Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday called the incident 'heart-wrenching' and urged the state government to expedite relief measures.

"The news of the death of many students, including teachers, due to the boat capsizing in Vadodara, Gujarat is extremely heart-wrenching. Many students are still reported missing in this accident. The Gujarat government and administration are requested to expedite the relief and rescue operations and make every possible effort to save the lives of the students. In this hour of grief, we stand with the bereaved families and express our deepest condolences," Kharge said.

Vadodara MP Ranjanben Dhananjay Bhatt said that strict action will be taken in this regard.

"The NDRF team is carrying out the rescue operation. The children have been taken to different hospitals. Strict action will be taken in this matter," Vadodara MP said.

(With agency inputs)