Mid-Ganga Scare in Bhagalpur: Passenger Boat Breaks Down, Swift Rescue Saves All Onboard

Brief By Newsbrief / 6:21 PM on 17 May 2026

A major mishap was narrowly avoided in Bhagalpur after a passenger boat travelling from Barari Ghat to Mahadevpur Ghat developed a technical fault midstream in the Ganga River. According to eyewitnesses, the boat’s engine suddenly stopped working, leaving it stranded and drifting dangerously in strong river currents, triggering panic among passengers.

The situation turned critical as the overcrowded boat reportedly carried several women and children, who were left terrified while the vessel swayed amid heavy waves. Passengers raised alarms and appealed for help as fears of an accident intensified.

Displaying quick response and courage, local boatmen, divers and residents immediately launched a rescue operation. Additional boats were sent into the river, and all stranded passengers were safely evacuated one by one. The damaged boat was later pulled to shore using ropes.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over river transport safety, especially amid increased dependence on boats following disruptions linked to the Vikramshila Bridge crisis.