Mathura Boat Capsize: Final Missing Pilgrim Found, Death Toll Reaches 16

The death toll from the boat capsize incident in Vrindavan, Mathura, has risen to 16 after authorities recovered the body of the last missing pilgrim from the Yamuna river. Police confirmed on April 16, 2026, that all individuals reported missing following the accident have now been accounted for. The deceased was identified as 40-year-old Pankaj Malhotra, a resident of Fazilka, Punjab, who worked in Himachal Pradesh. He was part of a pilgrimage group from Jagraon, Ludhiana. The tragedy occurred on April 10 when the boat, carrying devotees, capsized after colliding with a pontoon structure near Keshi Ghat. In addition to the fatalities, eight other pilgrims were injured but have since been discharged after receiving medical treatment. Superintendent of Police (Rural) Suresh Chandra Rawat announced the conclusion of the week-long intensive search operation. Meanwhile, District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident. Additional District Magistrate Pankaj Kumar Verma has been tasked with investigating the cause of the accident and identifying any lapses in safety measures to prevent future occurrences.