PM Modi condoles Gonda canal accident deaths

New Delhi, Aug 3: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in an accident in Gonda district, Uttar Pradesh, where an SUV plunged into the Saryu canal, killing 11 people and leaving four others critically injured. In a post shared by the Prime Minister's Office on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi said:

“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to an accident in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap.

May the injured recover soon.” He announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). According to a report by PTI, the accident occurred near Belwa Bahuta in Itiathok area when the SUV carrying 15 passengers, including the driver, fell into the Saryu canal. The group was reportedly on their way from Sihagaon village to offer holy water at the Prithvinath Temple in Khargupur. Station House Officer of Itiathok police station, Krishn Gopal Rai, said that 11 bodies were pulled out of the submerged vehicle with the help of local residents and rescue teams. Four other passengers were rescued in a critical condition and admitted to a nearby hospital.

Police have sent the bodies for post-mortem examination and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the mishap. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed grief over the tragedy. He announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh to each of the families of the deceased and directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured. The district administration is continuing relief and investigation efforts.