Two days after the tragic Chilika boat tragedy in which six persons lost their lives, the Director of Ports and Inland Water Transport on Monday initiated a probe by visiting the spot.
Transport Minister Nrusingha Charan Sahu informed that the director has been asked to conduct a detailed investigation on whether there were lifejackets in the ill-fated vessel or not.
“It is an unfortunate incident and already Director of Ports has been asked to conduct an inquiry and submit report.
Basing on the suggestions, appropriate measures would be taken by the Government to ensure such incidents do not occur in future,” said Sahu.
Earlier on Sunday night, the boatman as well as the owner of the country boat was arrested by police in connection with the mishap.
Notably, six persons, all women and children, had died after the boat capsized in the lake following a thunderstorm in evening.
As six persons had reportedly gone missing in the lake following the mishap, a massive rescue operation was subsequently launched by Fire Services and ODRAF teams.
Two bodies were recovered the same day while four others were fished out on Sunday.
The State Government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the kin of the deceased and free medical treatment for the injured.ss