Cruise boat capsize: Tragedy exposes safety gaps, mirrors past lapses in Bhopal; tourists cite no life jackets, overcrowding

BHOPAL: The sinking of a cruise boat in Jabalpur’s Bargi dam has reignited outrage over Madhya Pradesh Tourism’s alleged negligence on passenger safety, echoing a near-tragic incident in Bhopal four years ago.The vessel capsized during a routine cruise ride on the Narmada, throwing dozens of tourists into turbulent waters and exposing what eyewitnesses described as ignored protocols and glaring lapses in basic arrangements. “Tourists were herded onto the boat without a single life jacket in sight. Children were running around freely, and the railings were so low you could step over them,” said survivor Priya Sharma, a teacher who was onboard with her family.

The incident has revived concerns over repeated warnings and unfulfilled assurances. In 2022, a cruise at Bhopal’s Upper Lake had partially submerged during strong winds, triggering panic evacuations. Following that, the tourism department had promised statewide reforms, including mandatory life jackets, stronger railings and stricter vessel inspections. However, sources say follow-up audits remained irregular, with several violations continuing.Officials, including GM (Operations) Ajay Shrivastava, did not respond to calls. The department has now ordered an inquiry, even as tourists and families demand accountability and stricter enforcement across tourist water bodies. “How many near-misses before real action?” asked tourist Ashok Saxena, questioning the lack of visible change on the ground despite past incidents and assurances.A control room has been set up at the collector’s office, with helpline 0761-2624355 and Virendra Singh in-charge for 24×7 updates on missing persons and the incident.