A tragic incident has shocked Patna residents as two young men drowned at Marine Drive ghat under Digha police station limits. The accident occurred on Sunday morning and has raised serious concerns about safety arrangements along the Ganga.
The Incident at Marine Drive Ghat
According to initial information, two men went to the riverbank at Marine Drive to collect Ganga water. They had planned to use the water for Navratri rituals starting the following day.
However, the absence of barricades and safety measures at the ghat proved fatal. Both men slipped into deeper water and drowned.
Eyewitnesses described the sudden panic at the site. Within minutes, the calm riverside turned chaotic as locals tried to understand what had happened.
Victims Identified
The victims were identified as Bunty Kumar, aged 31, and Sumit Kumar, aged 30. Both men were residents of Damdiya Road Number 20 in Gardanibagh, Patna.
Sumit Kumar worked at LNT Bhagalpur and had returned home for Navratri holidays. Bunty Kumar, his close friend, had accompanied him to the river.
They had gone with the simple purpose of fetching Ganga water, unaware of the hidden danger.
Delay in Search Operation
Despite the drowning incident being reported in the morning, families alleged that the search operation was not launched even after two hours.
Relatives expressed anger, stating that authorities failed to respond swiftly despite being informed immediately.
Police sources confirmed that Dial 112 teams reached the site but were mainly engaged in controlling the crowd. The actual recovery of the bodies had not started until much later.
Family’s Anguish
Relatives and neighbors of the victims gathered at the ghat, demanding urgent action. Their grief was mixed with frustration over the lack of immediate rescue measures.
Many questioned why no lifeguards or safety teams were stationed at the busy ghat. They argued that the tragedy could have been prevented with basic safety arrangements.
Lack of Safety at the Ghat
Locals highlighted that Digha ghat, despite being popular, has no barricading or visible warning signs. Without protective measures, people often unknowingly step into deeper sections of the river.
This absence of precautionary systems is particularly concerning during festive times when devotees visit the riverbanks to collect water.
Residents stressed that this was not the first such tragedy. Several incidents in past years have shown how lack of security arrangements leads to loss of lives.
Navratri Connection
The timing of the accident adds to the sorrow. With Navratri beginning on September 22, families across Patna were preparing for rituals.
The victims had gone early in the morning to fetch holy water for Kalash Sthapana. What was meant to be a sacred act ended in devastation for their families.
Official Response
Police officials acknowledged the delay in launching a search. They cited logistical challenges in mobilizing specialized teams for underwater operations.
However, this explanation did not satisfy the grieving families. For them, every minute of delay reduced the chances of recovery.
District administration sources said arrangements are being reviewed to avoid similar tragedies during upcoming festivals.
Public Reaction
Social media platforms were soon flooded with reactions. Many users expressed condolences, while others criticized the administration’s negligence.
Some posts called for immediate deployment of lifeguards at popular ghats. Others demanded stricter monitoring during festival seasons.
The tragedy became a reminder of how safety measures often lag behind public needs in Bihar’s capital.
Eyewitness Accounts
Several locals present at the scene narrated the horrifying moments. They claimed the victims struggled briefly before disappearing underwater.
Some tried to help but could not due to the strong current. Without trained rescue staff or safety equipment, their efforts were in vain.
One resident said, “Every year we see similar incidents. Authorities wake up only after someone dies.”
Broader Safety Concerns in Patna
The incident has reignited debate on public safety in Patna. Despite rapid urban development, riverbank safety has received little attention.
Marine Drive, often visited by families, joggers, and devotees, lacks protective barriers and monitoring teams. The combination of deep currents and poor safety has made it a danger zone.
Experts say that as Patna expands, civic planning must prioritize both infrastructure and safety.
The Personal Loss
For the families of Bunty and Sumit, the tragedy is beyond repair. Bunty’s relatives described him as a supportive son and a caring brother.
Sumit, employed at LNT Bhagalpur, had taken leave to celebrate Navratri with his family. His sudden death has left his household in deep mourning.
Neighbors in Gardanibagh said both young men were well-regarded in the community. Their untimely demise has cast a shadow over the locality.
Pattern of Similar Incidents
This is not the first time drowning incidents have been reported in Patna during festival preparations. In previous years, several devotees have lost their lives while collecting water from unsafe ghats.
Despite repeated tragedies, little has been done to improve safety infrastructure. Temporary arrangements during festivals often fall short.
Experts suggest that permanent safety structures, trained lifeguards, and awareness drives are essential.
Call for Accountability
Public anger is now turning towards the administration. Citizens are asking why ghats remain unprotected despite their heavy use.
Activists argue that accountability must be fixed. Without responsibility, similar tragedies will continue to occur.
There are also demands for immediate compensation for the families of Bunty and Sumit.
Moving Forward
Authorities have promised a review of ghat safety in Patna. Plans include installing barricades, deploying rescue staff, and improving lighting.
However, many remain skeptical. Past promises have rarely translated into long-term improvements.
Only time will tell if this tragedy finally pushes authorities to act decisively.
The drowning of Bunty Kumar and Sumit Kumar at Patna’s Marine Drive ghat is a painful reminder of how negligence can turn devotion into disaster.
As families mourn their loss, the incident raises urgent questions about safety, preparedness, and accountability.
For Patna residents, the tragedy highlights the urgent need to balance faith and safety. Without stronger measures, riverbanks will remain dangerous, especially during festivals.
