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.