9 dead as boat capsizes in Kendrapara

Kendrapara, Jan 3:  The death toll in the boat capsize incident in Mahanadi river mouth near Nipania in Kendrapara reached nine after eight more bodies were recovered late last night.

            All the deceased including two women and seven children have been identified as residents of Jagatsinghpur district. As per latest reports one person is still missing.

            Sources said as many as 55 passengers were returning after a picnic at the Light House at Hukitola island of the Mahanadi river for the New Year, when the mishap occurred. Out of the total passengers travelling in the boat, 45 persons were safe.

            After getting information about the mishap last evening, fire brigade and coast guard teams reached the spot and carried out rescue operations till 3 am on Thursday.

            Meanwhile, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh to the family members of the deceased and free medical treatment to the injured.