Khandwa, Oct 3 (V7N) – At least eleven people, including minors, were killed when a trolley parked on a temporary bridge for Durga idol immersion plunged into a lake in Khandwa district on Thursday evening. Local police confirmed that the tragic accident occurred around 5:00 PM.
 
According to Khandwa Superintendent of Police Manoj Rai, the trolley fell into the lake while parked on the temporary bridge constructed for the festival. Following the accident, 10–15 people immediately jumped into the water attempting to rescue the victims, but no one could be saved alive. Among the deceased, six were women, and one was a minor. An eight-year-old girl remains missing, and rescue operations are ongoing.
 
Three injured girls were quickly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Hospital officials confirmed that the bodies of ten victims have arrived, while the injured are receiving medical care.
 
Authorities estimate that 30–32 people were on the trolley at the time of the accident, and the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue. Rescue teams, police, and medical personnel are actively working at the scene. Local resident Fakir Chand Kushwaha reported that he and others managed to pull six bodies from the lake and rescue three individuals alive. The lake, with an approximate depth of 50 feet, has made the rescue operation challenging.
 
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow over the incident. In a social media post, he announced compensation of 4 lakh INR for the families of the deceased and assured proper medical treatment for the injured. He also prayed for the swift recovery of the victims and strength for the grieving families.
 
The tragic accident underscores the need for strict safety measures during festival preparations and public events, particularly when temporary structures are used over water bodies. Authorities have promised a full investigation into the incident.
 
END/WD/SMA