A tragic incident unfolded in Agra when a group of devotees performing a Durga idol immersion were swept away by the strong currents of the Utangan river. The mishap claimed three lives, while five others remain unaccounted for. Rescue teams have been deployed to search for the missing individuals, with one person successfully pulled to safety.

Devotees Entered Unsafe Immersion Point

According to reports, the group had initially attempted to use designated immersion sites but were turned away due to restrictions. Instead, they entered the river at an undesignated location where the water flow was particularly strong. This decision proved fatal as nine individuals were caught in the current and dragged downstream.

Immediate Loss of Lives Reported

Out of the nine people swept away, three were confirmed dead shortly after the incident. Their bodies were recovered by rescue teams working along the riverbanks. The identities of those who perished have not been disclosed at this stage, but officials confirmed that all belonged to the same group participating in the religious ritual.

Five Still Missing in Utangan River

The search continues for five missing individuals who disappeared beneath the waters during the immersion ceremony. Authorities have deployed specialized State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) units to aid in locating them. Despite challenging conditions caused by strong currents and uneven terrain along the riverbed, efforts are ongoing with hopes of finding survivors or recovering those still unaccounted for.

Rescue Operations Underway

Rescue personnel managed to save one person from drowning during the chaos. Teams equipped with boats and safety gear are combing through different stretches of the Utangan river to trace others who may have been carried further downstream. Officials emphasized that every possible measure is being taken to ensure a thorough search operation continues until all missing persons are accounted for.

Warnings Against Non-Designated Sites

Authorities had previously issued advisories urging devotees not to use non-designated immersion points due to safety risks posed by unpredictable water currents and deep sections of rivers. Despite these warnings, some groups continue to bypass official guidelines, often leading to tragic consequences such as this incident in Agra. Officials reiterated that designated sites are chosen specifically for their relative safety and accessibility for both participants and emergency responders.

The Agra tragedy underscores the dangers of disregarding safety advisories during religious ceremonies involving water bodies. While rescue operations remain active, this incident serves as a stark reminder of why authorities stress adherence to designated immersion points designed to minimize risks for devotees and ensure swift emergency response when needed.