10 Dead as Steamer Capsizes in Yamuna River at Vrindavan; Punjab Tourists Among Victims
Vessel carrying 30 passengers collides with pontoon bridge in strong winds; NDRF deployed, Army called in as rescue operations continue
MATHURA, April 10, 2026 — At least 10 tourists lost their lives and several others were injured on Friday afternoon after a steamer carrying 30 passengers capsized in the Yamuna river near Kesi Ghat in Vrindavan, Mathura. All those on board were tourists from Punjab’s Jagraon town in Ludhiyaana district, travelling as members of the Banke Bihari Club.
The tragedy struck at around 3 PM near Kesi Ghat, approximately 2.5 kilometres from the Shri Banke Bihari temple. Among the 10 dead are six women and four men. District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh confirmed the incident and stated that the Army has been requisitioned to assist in relief and rescue operations.
How the Accident Happened
Eyewitness and survivor Tanish Jain of Ludhiana, who was aboard the ill-fated vessel, recounted that the steamer was warned about the approaching pontoon bridge but the boatman failed to stop in time. “We told the navigator that the bridge was ahead and to stop, but he didn’t listen. The steamer narrowly escaped twice but on the third attempt it collided and capsized. Nearby divers saved us,” he said.
Another tourist, Manohar Lal, said strong winds had caused the steamer to sway violently in the middle of the river before it struck the bridge. According to weather monitoring website Skymet, wind speeds at the time of the incident were recorded at 31 kilometres per hour in Vrindavan.
The group of around 130 tourists had travelled in two buses from Jagraon, departing on the evening of April 9. They were staying at Phogla Ashram near Vrindavan.
Rescue and Relief Operations
Around 50 local divers have been deployed in the ongoing search operation. An NDRF team from Ghaziabad is also on its way to the site. Injured survivors have been admitted to Ramakrishna Mission Hospital, where treatment is being provided free of cost. All hospitals in the district have been placed on high alert. DIG Shailesh Pandey has reached the spot to oversee operations.
Political Response
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the tragedy, posting on X: “The loss of lives in the boat capsize incident in Mathura is extremely sad and heartbreaking. My condolences are with the bereaved families.” He also directed officials to immediately reach the spot, conduct rescue operations, and ensure proper treatment for the injured.
Crowds have gathered along the banks of the Yamuna as search operations continue for those still missing.
Reported by NewsarcIndia Bureau | Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
