Deputy Director Drowns in UP; Divers Demand Payment

Deputy Director Drowns in UP

A recent incident in Uttar Pradesh highlights a dramatic rescue attempt involving a senior official. On Saturday, Aditya Vardhan Singh, the Deputy Director of Health in UP, went to the Ganges at Nanmau in Bilhaur for a holy dip and to take photos with friends. Despite being a proficient swimmer, Singh slipped and fell into the river, crossing the warning mark.

Witnessing the incident, Singh’s friends sought help from local private divers who were available. Despite offering Rs. 10,000, the divers refused to enter the river, citing a lack of cash and requesting payment via UPI. Singh’s friends complied, but tragically, Singh drowned in the river.

The situation continued into Sunday with no arrests made so far, as confirmed by Ajay Kumar, ACP of Bilhaur. Search and rescue efforts involved SDRF personnel, the flood unit, police, and private divers.

In response to allegations regarding the divers demanding money, DCP Singh clarified that the divers had claimed they were only asking for funds to cover fuel costs for their steamer. An investigation is underway to address these issues and ensure appropriate action is taken.