Tragic Drowning Incident During Temple Rescue Attempt in Gujarat

A man drowned while attempting to rescue devotees after their boat sank near the Belnath Mahadev temple in Gujarat's Botad district. Despite immediate rescue efforts from local residents, Harpalsinh Gohil lost his life during the heroic attempt.

A tragic incident unfolded in Botad district of Gujarat on Monday when a man drowned while trying to rescue devotees from a sinking boat. The boat was en route to the Belnath Mahadev temple, located on the banks of the Kalubhar river near Khijadiya village, officials reported.

According to Gir Gadhada Taluka Development Officer (TDO) Anil Vala, the incident occurred during the morning hours, carrying four devotees to the temple. Local residents quickly jumped into the river to assist, but one rescuer, Harpalsinh Gohil, tragically drowned in the process.

Police officials later confirmed that Gohil's body was recovered from the river. The incident has cast a pall of sadness over the community and raised concerns about safety measures for such pilgrimages.

(With inputs from agencies.)