Gonda Canal Tragedy: 11 Dead, 4 Survive After Bolero Falls Into Canal During Heavy Rains in Uttar Pradesh

A heart-wrenching tragedy struck Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh as a Bolero packed with devotees plunged into a canal, claiming 11 lives, including women and children. Four people, including the driver, two boys, and a girl, were rescued alive in a dramatic police-led rescue operation.

The horrific accident occurred in the Itiathok block’s Rehra village, where the group was on its way to offer prayers at the renowned Prithvinath Temple during the holy month of Sawan. Continuous heavy rain had left roads across Uttar Pradesh slippery and waterlogged, with muddy patches making driving extremely hazardous. When the Bolero attempted to cross a slippery stretch over a bridge, it skidded, spun out of control, and fell into the canal.

Witnesses described panic and desperate cries from inside the submerged vehicle. Locals and police rushed to the site, launching a rescue mission in treacherous conditions. Four people managed to break the windows and escape, while others helped them swim to safety. Tragically, 11 others, including six women, two men, and three children, lost their lives as water quickly flooded the vehicle, making escape nearly impossible, especially with the door reportedly locked.

Authorities responded swiftly upon learning of the accident. The bodies of those who perished were recovered and sent for post-mortem examination, while the survivors were taken for immediate medical treatment. Most victims reportedly belonged to the same extended family, compounding the grief in the village where the loss of multiple relatives has created a wave of mourning.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his condolences and announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh for each bereaved family. He also ordered district officials to ensure proper medical care and immediate financial aid for survivors and families.

Eyewitness accounts, including that of a young girl who survived, described the harrowing moments inside the vehicle—singing devotional songs, then chaos, slipping into darkness, and struggling for survival as the Bolero rapidly filled with water. The accident is yet another grim reminder to exercise extra caution when traveling during monsoon season, as rivers, canals, and streams swell rapidly, making roads and bridges highly dangerous. Local authorities have also warned people to stay away from waterlogged and flood-prone roads.

As Gonda and neighboring villages mourn the devastating loss, officials continue urging citizens to prioritize safety and remain alert during inclement weather.