In a heartbreaking incident, four Indian medical students lost their lives in a drowning accident while swimming in the Volkhov River in Veliky Novgorod, northwest Russia. The tragedy unfolded on Tuesday, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate event.
According to the regional investigative committee, the students were swimming in an area where bathing is prohibited when two of them were swept away by the current. In a courageous attempt to rescue their friends, two additional students jumped into the river, resulting in all four being submerged.
While efforts were made to save them, tragically, all four students succumbed to the water. However, a fifth student managed to be rescued from the river, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the sorrow.
The Indian consulate in Saint Petersburg has been actively involved, ensuring that the families of the deceased are informed and facilitating the repatriation of their bodies at the earliest. Meanwhile, Russian authorities continue their search and recovery efforts, with two bodies already retrieved from the river.
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Veliky Novgorod, steeped in history as one of Russia’s oldest cities, now mourns the loss of these promising young individuals. As investigations continue, this tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, especially in unfamiliar environments.
The Volkhov River, coursing through Veliky Novgorod en route to the expansive Lake Ladoga, bears witness to this somber event, underscoring the need for caution and vigilance near water bodies. In the wake of this devastating loss, the global community mourns alongside the families and friends of the departed students.