Several feared drowned in Ganga as boat comes in contact with power line

In an unfortunate incident, a ferry carrying dozens of people from Kachi Dargah Ghat to Raghopur came in contact with 33 thousand KV power line in the Ganges, which led to some passengers collapse on the boat and others fall into the river. Though, no casualties have been reported it is believed that many people might've been washed away by the strong currents. While some of those who came in contact with the high-tension line were injured. The ill-fated boat was on its way from Kachi Dargah Ghat to Raghopur.

Patna (Bihar): A boat carrying at least 200 people from Kachi Dargah Ghat to Raghopur came in contact with 33,000 KV power line in the Ganges, which led to some passengers collapse on the boat and others fall into the river. Several people may have been washed away by the strong currents, it is suspected. Those that came in contact with the high-tension line were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. The ill-fated boat was on its way from Kachi Dargah Ghat to Raghopur.

As soon as the news was received, the administration immediately swung into action and launched a search and rescue operation. However, the darkness, poor visibility and strong flow of the river have hampered the operation.

"Many people fell off the vessel as soon as the boat came in contact with the power line. Some people collapsed on the boat and others fell into the river. I too fainted. There were some people standing atop the boat... they all fell into the river. Around, 200 to 250 people would've been on the boat," said Sunil Mahato, an eyewitness.

Another eyewitness, Bhola Rai said, "Garbage and weeds flowing in the river led to the boat being stuck in the middle of the river. We told the sailors to get rid of it, however, by then the boat began tilting to a side and came into contact with a hanging high voltage power line. As soon as the boat touched the wire, there was a heavy sound and many people collapsed on the boat while some others fell into the river. Many people got badly injured. I was also on the boat at the time of the accident."