Palghar, Maharashtra: A construction boat that became lodged under the Maswan bridge in the Surya River on Monday evening was successfully and safely removed by Tuesday morning, thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of the district administration and multiple rescue agencies.
The incident occurred around 6 pm on June 23 when the construction boat, owned by Suhas Sankhe, drifted in the Surya River's current and became stuck under the Maswan bridge. Initial concerns arose that if the river's water level were to recede, the vessel could drift further downstream and potentially damage a nearby dam. Rescue operations faced challenges overnight due to heavy rainfall, but teams managed to keep the boat under control. As soon as the rain subsided on Tuesday morning, the boat was safely extracted by 10 am.
District Collector Dr. Indu Rani Jakhar immediately ordered the boat's swift and safe extraction upon receiving information about the incident. Under her direct instructions, various departments and agencies collaborated seamlessly, including the District Disaster Management Authority, Revenue Department, National Highways Authority of India, Police Department, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Regional Response Centre, and the local fire brigade. Their combined efforts ensured the boat was removed without any damage and, importantly, with no casualties reported.
Resident Deputy Collector and Chief Executive Officer of the District Disaster Management Authority, Subhash Bhagde, Palghar Tehsildar Ramesh Shendge, and District Disaster Management Officer Vivekanand Kadam visited the site and oversaw the complex operation, ensuring its smooth and successful execution.
The vessel reportedly became immobile after developing a snag and got lodged in a shallow part of the river, necessitating the multi-agency response.
