At least 11 people, including women and children, lost their lives on Sunday when a vehicle carrying 14 pilgrims plunged into the Saryu canal in Uttar Pradesh&rsquo;s Gonda district. The victims were en route from Sihagaon to Khargupur to offer prayers at the Prithvi Nath temple when the Bolero they were traveling in veered off the road and sank into the canal.
Local residents and eyewitnesses immediately raised the alarm, prompting a swift response from ItiyaThok police. With assistance from villagers, authorities recovered the bodies and rescued four passengers who sustained minor injuries. Superintendent of Police Vineet Jaiswal confirmed the fatalities and stated that the injured have been admitted to the District Hospital for treatment.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and announced ₹5 lakh ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased. He also directed officials to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured quoted, "The loss of life in this unfortunate accident is extremely tragic and heart-wrenching. I pray for the departed souls and strength for the bereaved families."
An investigation into the cause of the accident is underway.

11 Killed as Vehicle Falls into UP's Saryu Canal

Tragedy in Gonda as Bolero plunges into canal; CM Yogi announces ₹5L ex-gratia aid

11 Killed as Vehicle Falls into UP's Saryu Canal

Tragedy in Gonda as Bolero plunges into canal; CM Yogi announces ₹5L ex-gratia aid

August 3, 2025 | 14:03 IST