The National Human Rights Commission has sought action taken report (ATR) from State Government over the boat tragedy in Hirakud Dam Reservoir (HDR) that claimed 31 lives on February 9.
Acting on a petition filed by rights activist Akhand, the Commission has directed State Chief Secretary to submit reports within four weeks.
As many as 31 people died after a country boat carrying picnickers from Sambalpur town capsized due to overloading in the reservoir. The boat was ferrying around 120 people, mostly picnickers who were returning to mainland. The boat was also loaded with around 30 motorcycles.
The petitioner alleged that the tragedy occurred due to negligence on part of district administration. Despite rising concerns and demands, appropriate safety measures were not put in place by the administration to ensure safe ferrying of boats on the rivers and water channels. As a result, boat tragedies had become a common phenomenon across the State.
“The country boats do not have licence or registration nor are they insured. No quality control mechanism or fitness certificate is issued to such boats by the administration. Life jackets are also not provided to the passengers in the boats. So when any accident happens, several people die,” the petitioner submitted.
The petitioner prayed for an order to take safety measures in various river ghats while pressing for compensation of `5 lakh the families of each victim and action against the erring officials.