Bhopal/Sagar, April 24 (IANS) A tragic incident unfolded in Guda village of Sagar district when three youths drowned in a stone crusher quarry while attempting to rescue a companion who was struggling in the water.
The tragedy has cast a pall of grief over the region, with one body recovered so far and search operations continuing for the other two.
According to police officials from the Baheria Police Station, the incident occurred around midday when four friends went to bathe in the quarry pond.
Eyewitness Shiva Valmiki recounted that one of the youths, Tanish Kori, began drowning, prompting his companions Abhishek alias Addha and Tejram Patel to jump in to save him.
In the process, all three were overwhelmed by the deep waters. Another friend, Ayush, also attempted to help but was pulled out by others before he, too, could be dragged under.
By the time help was summoned, the three had disappeared beneath the water. Police teams rushed to the site immediately upon receiving the information, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) was deployed to assist with the rescue operation.
The SDRF continued its search late into the night, recovering the body of Abhishek, while efforts are ongoing to locate Tanish and Tejram.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a heartbreaking tragedy.
In a statement, he extended condolences to the bereaved families and announced financial assistance of ₹4 lakh each.
He said instructions have been issued to the administration to ensure immediate support and prayed for strength for the families to bear the loss.
Local MLA Pradeep Laria also visited the site to take stock of the situation and assured the families of all possible help.
The incident has highlighted the dangers posed by abandoned quarry ponds, which often attract youths during the summer months but remain hazardous due to their depth and unpredictable conditions.
The community of Guda village remains in mourning as rescue teams continue their search, with hopes that the missing youths can be recovered soon to bring closure to their grieving families.
–IANS
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