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Erosion Topples Ganga Ashram; One Missing, One Injured
17 Oct
Summary
- A three-storey ashram in the Ganga River collapsed due to foundation erosion.
- One disciple is missing, and another was injured during the collapse.
- The structure had been built over two decades, standing 40-50 feet high.
A significant three-storey ashram, estimated to be 40-50 feet high and constructed over nearly two decades in the middle of the Ganga River, collapsed late Friday evening. The incident occurred in Prayagraj after soil erosion around the structure's foundation weakened its integrity. Authorities have launched extensive search operations for a 40-year-old disciple who is still untraceable due to strong river currents.
Three disciples were inside the ashram retrieving belongings when it suddenly gave way. One disciple was swept away, while another was initially trapped under debris but was rescued. The ashram, belonging to Swami Bajrang Das, had developed cracks during recent floods, and despite attempts by the administration to persuade the seer to vacate, disciples entered the building to collect their belongings shortly before the collapse.
The incident has raised questions about the legality of such a large structure being built in the riverbed. Some prominent seers have claimed they previously raised objections with authorities regarding such constructions, but their concerns were reportedly not addressed. Similar constructions are alleged to be ongoing along the Ganga banks.
