In the aftermath of a devastating cruise capsize at the Bargi Dam in MP’s Jabalpur on Thursday, state Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Friday has ordered a high-level probe into the incident. Simultaneously, the state’s Tourism Minister Dharmendra Lodhi has announced the suspension of the operations of all the cruises across the state.

Officials aware of the development said that every operational cruise vessel in the state will be inspected thoroughly for safety. Services will only resume after the authorities are satisfied with compliance and passenger safety standards.

9 dead so far, several rescued

The incident transpired on Thursday evening when a tourist-filled cruise capsized in the Bargi Dam following a sudden and a severe storm. As per officials, the death toll, which was initially at 4, has climbed to 9. Meanwhile, the rescue operations are underway on a war-footing and the teams are working tirelessly to locate four missing passengers. Officials added that 29 passengers have been rescued alive, and the submerged vessel is being cut open to search for the unaccounted people.

CM vows strict action against those responsible

On Thursday evening, MP CM Dr Yadav expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, and vowed strict action on Friday against the ones found responsible. He also praised the prompt response of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), saying that their swift action helped save numerous lives amid adverse weather conditions.

The Chief Minister added that the rescue team personnel shall be felicitated on Independence Day 2026.

Lower deck flooded quickly during the capsize

Eyewitnesses said that tourists were enjoying a cruise safari in the dam waters when strong winds caused the double-decker vessel to destabilise. While some passengers jumped into the water to save their lives, the passengers on the lower deck had little time to escape as it flooded quickly. Many of them were trapped inside and eventually drowned in the Narmada River. Sources said a majority of the victims are reported to be women.

Also read: MP Bargi cruise tragedy: Death toll mounts to 9; rescue efforts intensify, 4 still missing