MP: Tragic Drowning Incident in Sagar River Claims Four Lives, bodies recovered

August 9, 2025

MP: On the eve of Raksha Bandhan, a heartbreaking tragedy struck near Richhawar village in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district, where four young men drowned in the Bebas River under the Sanodha police station limits.

Incident Details

The incident occurred late Friday evening when five friends from Khushipura and Richhawar villages went for a picnic near the Bebas River.

According to Bharat Singh Thakur, the Sanodha police station in-charge, one of the youths ventured into deeper waters while bathing and began to drown.

In an attempt to rescue him, three others jumped in, but all four were swept away by the river’s strong currents.

The fifth friend, who had cautioned them against entering the water, noted that the group might have been under the influence, as an empty bottle and plastic disposable glasses were found near their abandoned clothes.

Victims and Ongoing Search

The deceased have been identified as Raj Ahirwar, Sumit Ahirwar, and Nikhil Ahirwar, with Sunny Ahirwar still missing. All victims, aged 21 to 23, belonged to the Ahirwar community. As of Saturday morning, three bodies have been recovered, while search operations for the fourth continue.

The fifth youth alerted authorities and the victims’ families, prompting an immediate response. Local police, supported by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and trained divers, launched a rescue operation, though efforts were hindered by darkness, the river’s depth, and strong currents.

Community Response and Safety Warning

The recovery of two bodies early Saturday morning sent shockwaves through the community, dampening the festive spirit of Raksha Bandhan.

Local officials and representatives visited the site, offering support to the grieving families. Thakur emphasized the dangers of swollen rivers during the monsoon, urging the public to avoid water bodies.

The administration is closely monitoring the ongoing rescue efforts, with local residents assisting authorities in the search for the missing youth.