Tragic Accident in Kasganj, UP: 23 Dead, Including 9 Children, as Tractor-trolley Overturns in Pond

In a devastating incident in Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh, 23 individuals lost their lives, including 9 children, when a tractor-trolley overturned into a pond on Saturday. 

The tragic accident occurred as the vehicle, carrying at least 30 people, most of whom were residents of Etah district, was en route to the Ganga for a dip to mark Magh Poornima.

The exact cause of the mishap is still under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest that over 30 villagers were on board the overloaded trolley. 

Divers were deployed for rescue operations, and, despite challenges posed by the pond’s depth and sand deposition, at least four people were successfully rescued and admitted to Kasganj District Hospital.

The rescue efforts were hampered due to the sandy terrain, prompting locals, including Praveen Kumar, to assist with JCB machines to facilitate sand removal and aid in the recovery mission. 

The pond, approximately 8-feet deep, became the site of a tragic accident, leaving a child missing and adding to the grief of the affected families.

Political leaders across party lines expressed their condolences and grief over the incident. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sadness and announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. 

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured, ensuring proper free treatment for all.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav also extended their condolences and urged the government to expedite relief efforts. 

BSP chief Mayawati expressed her deepest condolences, emphasizing the need for the government to provide swift assistance to the affected families. 

The tragic incident has left the community in mourning.