Patna, 1 Dec – A passenger boat capsized near Koir Patti Ghat in Bairia block of West Champaran district, Bihar, taking more than 15 people down into the river. The sudden overturn plunged the overloaded craft into a deep channel, sending all aboard into the dark water. Local villagers and divers acted quickly, pulling many men and women to safety, but two young girls—a 17‑year‑old named Punita Kumari and an 8‑year‑old named Sugi Kumari—have yet to be found.
The small boat, which could safely carry only five to six passengers, was carrying an estimated 15 to 20 people, all from Pakhanaha Dumaria Ward Nos. 11 and 8. According to residents, the group had recently returned home from the Diara area after cutting fodder for their cattle. In the darkness, the overcrowded vessel collided with a larger boat, causing it to flip.
Search efforts are ongoing despite the darkness. The Bairia police officer, Anuj Kumar Singh, confirmed that the boat is completely submerged and that the stressed depth of the river contributed to the tragedy. An SDRF team arrived at the scene to assist, but their operations are hampered by poor visibility. Relief and rescue teams remain on site as the community grieves the loss of the two girls and continues the search for any other missing individuals. The entire area remains in deep shock over the heartbreaking incident.
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