Boat capsizes in Bihar, killing 13 children
A boat capsized in the river Ganges in the eastern state of Bihar, drowning at least 13 people, authorities said on Wednesday.
News agency Press Trust of India reported that all of the deceased were children under the age of 15. At least six others on board were rescued.
The boat overturned on Tuesday night while carrying passengers to a feast in a neighboring village across the river, authorities told local media.
Rescue operators have retrieved the vessel and are conducting an investigation.
Several regional and national leaders expressed their grief over the incident. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it was "deeply painful," offering his condolences to the bereaved families.
"I pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured. The local administration is assisting those affected," Modi said through his office's account on X.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary said the News was "heartbreaking and soul-wrenching."
"Instructions have been given to the administration to swiftly complete relief and rescue operations and ensure better treatment for the injured," he said in a post.
Boat accidents are a common occurrence in India where safety measures are deficient.
