Tragic Drowning Incident Mars Chhath Festival Preparations in Bihar

Four children tragically drowned in the Ganges on Monday morning while bathing in preparation for the Chhath festival in Bihar's Bhagalpur district, authorities confirmed.

The incident occured in Navtoliya within the jurisdiction of the Ismailpur police station, as reported by Naugachia Superintendent of Police Prerna Kumar. The children, two of whom were residents of nearby Chhathu Singh Tola village, had been accompanied by family when they slipped into the treacherous waters. Despite efforts from divers to retrieve them, the children were declared dead upon arrival at the local hospital.

The victims were between 10 and 15 years old, according to the SP. The tragedy prompted a swift response from police and local administration. Bihar's Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, issued a public statement, extending his condolences to the bereaved families.