Three individuals are feared drowned after a truck reportedly broke through a bridge railing and plunged into the Ganga river early Monday morning in Kannauj district, Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred on a bridge connecting the two banks of the river, sending the heavy vehicle and its occupants into the strong currents below.

Local authorities, including the district police and administration officials, were alerted immediately following the incident and promptly launched a comprehensive search and rescue operation. Initial reports from witnesses suggest the truck veered off course, collided with the protective barrier, and then fell into the river. The identities of the occupants are yet to be officially confirmed, but preliminary information indicates two men and one woman were inside the vehicle.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been mobilised to assist in the recovery efforts. Specialized divers equipped with sonar technology and boats are being deployed to locate the submerged truck and its occupants. The strong currents and varying depths of the Ganga river, particularly after recent rainfall, are presenting significant challenges to the rescue teams. Poor visibility underwater is also a major impediment to the search operation.

Key details regarding the incident:

  • Location: A bridge spanning the Ganga river in Kannauj district, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Vehicle Involved: A commercial truck, specific model and cargo details are under investigation.
  • Estimated Casualties: Three individuals, two men and one woman, are feared to have drowned.
  • Cause: Preliminary assessment indicates the truck broke through the bridge's railing before plunging.
  • Responding Agencies: Local police, district administration, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

District Magistrate of Kannauj, alongside the Senior Superintendent of Police, is overseeing the rescue operations from the site. Authorities have appealed to local residents with knowledge of the river's conditions to assist, while also cautioning against approaching the dangerous areas. Traffic on the bridge was temporarily regulated to facilitate rescue efforts, although it has since been partially restored.

Search operations are expected to continue throughout the night and into Tuesday morning, with floodlights deployed to illuminate the river banks. An official inquiry has been initiated by the district administration to ascertain the exact cause of the accident, including examining the truck's condition, the driver's actions, and the structural integrity of the bridge railing at the point of impact. Further updates are expected as the investigation and rescue efforts progress.