The Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Vadodara has announced compensation for the victims of the Harni Lake boat incident, which claimed the lives of 12 children and two teachers on January 18, 2024. The order follows a series of hearings regarding compensation and over a year-long wait, with the victims’ families originally demanding Rs 5 crore per deceased.
The incident occurred when students from New Sunrise School were on an excursion to Harni Lake, and their boat capsized. Several others were injured in the accident.
During hearings in the Gujarat High Court, it was suggested that compensation be determined after listening to the victims’ families. A hearing was subsequently held before the Vadodara Deputy Collector, where families reiterated their demand.
As per the official order, the families of the 12 deceased children will receive Rs 31,75,700 each. Compensation for the two deceased teachers, identified as Chhaya and Falguni, has been set at Rs 11,21,900 and Rs 16,68,029.
Additionally, two injured individuals will receive Rs 50,000 each. The compensation is to be paid with an annual interest rate of 9% from the date of the public interest application until full recovery.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate V K Sambad issued the order, which holds the Harni Lake Zone contractor, Kotia Project, responsible for the compensation payment.
BJP corporator Ashish Joshi, in a general meeting of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation, accused the corporation of negligence in the incident. He alleged that even after a year, the families of the victims are still pleading for help.
According to Joshi, the contractor was responsible for operating pedal boats but instead operated motor boats, which led to the accident. He argued that the compensation should be provided under the Motor Vehicle Act.
He also alleged that officials failed to take action when a banquet hall was built within the lake premises and advertising hoardings were placed at the location. Joshi called for all 76 members who approved work under the 2015-16 PPP model to be held accountable.
Investigations revealed that the boat was overloaded and lacked proper safety measures.
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