Tragedy Unfolds in Kasganj: Tractor-Trolley Accident Claims 15 Lives

Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh: A tragic accident unfolded on Saturday morning in Kasganj district, Uttar Pradesh. A tractor-trolley carrying around 40 devotees on their way to bathe in the Ganges River from Etah district plunged into a pond, leaving 15 people confirmed dead, including several children.

The incident occurred on the Patiali Daryaganj road near Nagla Paji. The devotees, residents of villages Khiriya and Kasa in Etah's Jaithra police station, were traveling to Kadarganj Ghat for a holy bath on the occasion of Magh Purnima.

Following the accident, authorities rushed to the scene, initiating a search and rescue operation. Divers and local residents collaborated to pull victims from the water. The injured were taken to the hospital for treatment, while the deceased were sent to the district headquarters for post-mortem examination.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and announced financial assistance of Rs. 2 lakh each to their dependents. He also directed the district administration to expedite relief efforts, provide proper medical care to the injured free of cost, and ensure a thorough investigation into the accident's cause.

Two state ministers, Lakshminarayan Choudhary and Anup Valmiki, also visited the site to assess the situation and offer support. Additionally, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav expressed his sorrow for the victims and urged authorities to prioritize swift relief efforts.

While rescue work continues, the possibility of the death toll rising cannot be ruled out. This tragic incident highlights the need for stricter safety regulations for vehicles transporting passengers, particularly in rural areas.