Team Herald
PANJIM: A tragedy was averted when one of the boats participating in the traditional Sangod Utsav at Cumbharjua capsized on Friday evening. Luckily, all occupants of the boat were immediately brought to safety by locals and members of other participating floats.
The traditional Sangod is held every year in the Cumbharjua river, coinciding with the immersion of lord Ganesh idols which were worshipped for seven days.
Nearly 20 boats, all small canoes with three fitted each and decked as floats were taking rounds in the river. The incident occurred when these boats had completed their last round when the first boat capsized and about 15 persons fell into waters. Luckily, the devotees who were in other boats and following them rushed to their rescue. The locals who were also watching the event jumped into waters and rescued all even as some swam ashore.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and other dignitaries were present when the incident occurred.
Reacting to the incident, the Opposition Congress party alleged that the BJP government was insensitive towards Goan festivals. Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) president Amit Patkar demanded that Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte must explain why lifeguards were not deployed during this traditional Sangod festival?
"The government is deploying huge police force at Sunburn EDM and Bhutanis project to protect rich and mighty. Ganapati Bappa's blessings averted a tragedy at Sangod festival," he said.