Boat capsizes during idol immersion in Kota; two bodies recovered, search on for two others

The tragedy unfolded on the banks of the river in Kota as participants of an annual idol immersion festival gathered to submerge a ceremonial statue. A small boat, reportedly overloaded with seven passengers, capsized near the Steel Bridge, sending the occupants into the fast‑moving water. Emergency services arrived quickly, retrieving the bodies of Suraj Singh and Vikas Verma, while relatives of the missing cousins, Rahul Joshi and Ashu Joshi, awaited news as search operations persisted through the night.

Local authorities launched a coordinated rescue effort involving police, fire‑rescue units, and volunteers from nearby communities. Divers equipped with sonar devices scanned the riverbed, and surface teams used boats to sweep the area for any signs of the missing individuals. The incident has prompted officials to remind the public about safety protocols during large gatherings, especially when water activities are involved, and to enforce limits on the number of passengers per vessel.

The incident resonates deeply with residents of Kota and the broader region, as idol immersion events draw large crowds each year and are integral to cultural celebrations. The loss of life highlights the need for stricter enforcement of safety measures and better crowd management during such festivals. Families of the victims have expressed grief and called for improved emergency response capabilities to prevent similar tragedies in the future.