In a tragic incident in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, a boat capsized in the Yamuna River drowning at least 20 people.
In an exclusive report, The Quint reached out to the victims of the incident to find out more about the accident and to know what they have to say about it.
The boat was reportedly overloaded and was holding passengers more than its capacity. The boat could accommodate only 35 passengers, according to officials.
Locals alleged that no help came from the government for hours. They said it was the responsibility of the government to inspect whether all the safety measures are available on the boat or not.
Recalling the ordeal, one of the victims said the boat was overloaded. As soon as they started sailing, water began to seep into the boat, and gradually the boat began to sink. The rower tried to turn the boat back to the bank, but it was too late. Those who swam to safety are bereaved at losing their loved ones.
The locals claimed that there are no proper facilities in the village, a result of which they are forced to cross the river using the boat. The villagers have no other means of earning their livelihood due to which they are completely dependent on agriculture.
They said that since all their agricultural fields are located across the river, they have to commute via boats. If the boats were not available, the locals have to walk 20 kilometres to reach the other side of the river.
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