Seven persons drowned and five others were missing when a coracle carrying them sank in the Tungabadhra river More than 20 people were in the coracle to immerse Ganesha idol

At least seven persons drowned and five others were missing when a coracle carrying them for the immersion of a Ganesha idol sank in the Tungabadhra river near Hadonahalli in Shivamogga on Wednesday, police said

 

More than 20 people were in the coracle carrying a 4-feet tall Ganesha idol when the incident happened.

 

A video of the incident captured on a mobile phone showed the coracle packed with people in the middle of the river sinking and only a few of them swimming towards the shores.

 

Those who are on the shores are also seen jumping into the river to rescue.

 

Officials said that rescue operations were underway and seven bodies have been fished out so far.

 

Senior district administration and police officials have reached the spot.