Gonda, August 3: Eleven devotees, including nine members of the same family, died when an SUV plunged into the Saryu canal in the Itiyathok area of Gonda district, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday. Four others were injured, according to police.

The victims included six women, two men, and three children.

The Chief Minister has announced financial assistance of five lakh rupees each to the families of the deceased and directed district officials to ensure immediate medical treatment for the injured.

The SUV was carrying devotees from Sehagaon village in Motiganj to the famous Prithvinath Temple in Khargupur when the accident occurred near Belwa Bahuta.

Police said the vehicle, carrying 15 people including the driver, skidded off the road and overturned into the canal. Locals alerted the police, who, along with villagers and rescue teams, recovered 11 bodies—women, men, and children. Four passengers were rescued and taken to a nearby hospital.

The bodies have been sent for postmortem, and an investigation is underway.

Among the deceased were Bina (44), wife of Prahlad from Sehagaon; her daughters Kajal (22) and Mahak alias Rinki (12); Prahlad’s brother Ram Karan (36) and his wife Anasuya (34); their daughter Soumya (9) and son Shubh (7); Prahlad’s youngest brother Ramroop’s wife Durgesh Nandini (35) and son Amit (14); as well as neighbors Sanju (26), wife of Ram Lalan Verma, and her sister Gudia alias Anju (20).

The driver and three others—Prahlad’s son Satyam, daughter Pinki, neighbor Ram Lalan Verma, and driver Sitaraman—were hospitalized and are undergoing treatment.

Senior administrative and police officials rushed to the scene on the Chief Minister’s orders, coordinating relief efforts with a State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) team.

The Chief Minister expressed grief over the incident, praying for the departed souls and strength for the bereaved families. He reiterated directives for financial aid and medical care for the injured.

An eyewitness, Rahul Verma, said the road was slippery due to morning rain. “The SUV braked suddenly, skidded, and fell into the canal. We called police and pulled the vehicle out with ropes,” he said.

A rescued teenager recalled, “We were singing hymns on the way to the temple when everything went blurry—I remember nothing after.”

Senior officials visited the Itiyathok community health center, instructing doctors to prioritize the injured’s treatment.

Saryu canal

The Saryu Canal is an important irrigation canal in northern India, primarily located in Uttar Pradesh. It was constructed during the British colonial period in the late 19th century to divert water from the Saryu River (a tributary of the Ghaghara) to support agriculture in the region. Today, it remains a vital water source for farming communities, contributing to the local economy and rural development.

Prithvinath Temple

The Prithvinath Temple, located in Nepal, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Prithvinath (Lord of the Earth). Its history dates back centuries, with ties to the medieval Malla dynasty, reflecting Nepal’s rich religious and architectural heritage. The temple remains an important pilgrimage site and a symbol of cultural devotion.

Sehagaon village

Sehagaon is a small, traditional village in India, known for its rural charm and cultural heritage. While detailed historical records may be limited, it likely has roots in agriculture and local crafts, reflecting the lifestyle of its community over generations. The village offers a glimpse into India’s pastoral life, with possible ties to regional festivals and traditions.

Motiganj

Motiganj is a historic neighborhood in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh, known for its vibrant cultural heritage and traditional architecture. It was established during the Mughal period and later flourished under British colonial rule, becoming a hub for commerce and craftsmanship. Today, Motiganj retains its old-world charm with narrow lanes, historic buildings, and bustling markets.

Khargupur

Khargupur is a small town in the Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its cultural and historical significance. It is home to the ancient **Maa Siddheshwari Devi Temple**, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site believed to have centuries-old roots. The town reflects traditional rural Indian life while preserving its spiritual heritage.

Belwa Bahuta

“Belwa Bahuta” is a lesser-known cultural or historical site, and specific details about it may be limited. If it refers to a local shrine, temple, or natural landmark, it likely holds regional significance, possibly tied to folklore or community traditions. For a more accurate summary, additional context about its location or cultural background would be helpful. Would you like assistance in finding more information about it?

Itiyathok

There is limited widely known information available about “Itiyathok” as a specific cultural or historical site. If you are referring to a local or lesser-known place, please provide additional context or details so I can offer a more accurate summary. Alternatively, it might be a misspelling or regional term—clarifying the location or cultural background would help!

State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)

The **State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)** is a specialized emergency response unit in India, established by individual states to handle natural and man-made disasters. Modeled after the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), SDRF teams are trained in rescue, relief, and recovery operations during events like floods, earthquakes, and cyclones. Each state’s SDRF works alongside the NDRF and local authorities to enhance disaster preparedness and response.