Two women drown in Yamuna during Delhi's Jitiya festival

Two 18-year-old women drowned in the Yamuna River in north Delhi on Friday. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. at Sur Ghat in Wazirabad while the women were bathing with their families for the Jitiya festival.

Police identified the deceased as Pinki Kumari and Kajal Kumari, both from the Zakhira area. Their families, who are labourers, had travelled to the ghat for the traditional ritual. The two women were friends and had studied together.

The Fatal Incident

Accounts differ on the precise sequence. One report states the women entered deeper waters and drowned. Another says they took a few steps forward, lost their balance, and were swept away by the current. Their families realized they were missing while changing clothes and gathering belongings after the bath.

Authorities were alerted and a search operation was launched. Delhi Fire Services sent a fire tender and divers to the scene. The bodies were recovered from the river and taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared both women dead.

Festival Context and River Dangers

The drownings happened as devotees observed Jitiya, a festival where women fast and visit water bodies to pray for their children's well-being. Bathing in sacred rivers like the Yamuna is a traditional part of the observance.

Sur Ghat is a known bathing spot with a history of drowning incidents. Initial reports indicate strong currents and potentially slippery banks may have contributed to the fatalities. Police have reiterated warnings about the dangers of bathing in rivers, especially during periods of high water flow.

Investigation and Community Reaction

Police are investigating the exact circumstances. Based on initial findings, the deaths appear to be accidental drownings with no foul play suspected. Officers are recording statements from family members and other witnesses present at the ghat.

The local community expressed shock and grief over the loss. The tragedy has overshadowed the festival, a time typically dedicated to family and religious devotion.

A Pattern of Tragedies

This is not an isolated event. The Yamuna has seen similar fatal incidents recently.

Authorities are expected to review safety protocols at popular bathing ghats. This could include increased patrolling, deploying life-saving equipment, and public awareness campaigns. The investigation continues as the families mourn.