Questions mount over Bargi cruise probe:Complainants seek answers, questions maintenance records and emergency response during incident

The judicial inquiry into the fatal cruise accident at Bargi Dam in Jabalpur has entered its final phase. During proceedings before the Justice Sanjay Dwivedi Commission, complainants presented statements raising several new questions, including allegations that the damaged cruise vessel and its engine were dismantled after the incident without an independent technical examination. They also questioned whether lapses occurred in disaster management and emergency response following the tragedy. Demand for independent technical examination Social activists Neeraj Mishra, Akhilesh Tripathi, and Dr. P.G. Najpande told the commission that the damaged cruise and its engine should have undergone an independent technical inspection after the accident. According to the complainants, major rail, aviation, and maritime accidents around the world are routinely subjected to detailed technical investigations to determine the exact cause. They argued that a similar process should have been followed in the Bargi cruise disaster. They also sought an inquiry into the removal or dismantling of the damaged parts of the vessel and its engine after the accident. Questions raised over district administration’s role The complainants urged the commission to record statements from officials responsible for disaster management at the time of the incident, particularly the District Collector. Akhilesh Tripathi argued that under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the District Collector plays a central role in coordinating emergency response at the district level, making it important to examine the administration’s preparedness and actions during the incident. Concerns over fitness certificates and operational compliance Dr. P.G. Najpande also questioned whether all operational procedures governing cruise services at Bargi Dam had been properly followed. He called for scrutiny of the vessel’s service certificates, technical fitness records, permits, and other operational documents, while also seeking an independent review of its maintenance and technical inspections. Emergency medical response under scrutiny Neeraj Mishra told the commission that although ambulances reached the accident site, they allegedly lacked doctors or adequate medical personnel. He also raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of the rescue operation and overall disaster management arrangements during the emergency. Commission says, ‘Report will be submitted soon’ Justice Sanjay Dwivedi stated that statements from most complainants and eyewitnesses have already been recorded, with only a few remaining before the inquiry moves to its next stage. He added that the commission has inspected the accident site, conducted photography and videography, and questioned relevant stakeholders. The final report is expected to address issues related to accountability and any possible negligence. The commission indicated that it plans to submit its findings to the state government before the expiry of its three-month deadline. Background: The Bargi cruise accident On the evening of April 30, a tourist cruise capsized during strong winds at Bargi Dam near Jabalpur, resulting in the deaths of 13 tourists, including four children. Following the tragedy, the state government constituted the Justice Sanjay Dwivedi Commission to conduct a judicial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident.