During a Hindu festival in eastern India, at least 46 people, including 37 children and seven women, drowned while celebrating.
This tragic event happened as they were bathing in rivers and ponds, which had become dangerous due to recent flooding, according to local officials.
The festival, called Jivitputrika, is held each year to pray for the wellbeing of children. Mothers also fast during this three-day event.
Sadly, despite warnings about high water levels, many people still entered the rivers, leading to multiple drownings across 15 districts in just 24 hours. Authorities fear the death toll could rise further.
In response, state officials have announced compensation for the families of the victims. Such tragic accidents are not uncommon during India’s major festivals, where large crowds gather without proper safety measures.
Just earlier this year, 121 people died in a crush during a religious event in Uttar Pradesh. A similar tragedy in 2018 killed almost 60 people when a train hit a crowd celebrating another Hindu festival.
The BBC reports that these accidents often highlight the need for stricter safety measures during religious gatherings.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj4d2qqj877o