A passenger ferry boat operating between Jahnikuda and Satapada ghats in Chilika Lake became stuck in a muddy patch on Wednesday evening after being hit by a sudden Kalbaisakhi storm, leaving dozens of passengers and their vehicles stranded for several hours.
The boat had left Satapada Ghat around 5 pm heading towards Jahnikuda when dark clouds gathered and strong winds accompanied by heavy rain struck in the middle of the lake. The vessel veered off its designated channel, got lodged in a “kud” (mud pit) near Mahisha, and could not move forward despite the driver’s repeated attempts.
According to local reporters, the ferry was carrying five cars, ten motorcycles and more than 50 passengers. Nearby boatmen managed to rescue some of the passengers safely, but the vehicles and a section of the travellers remained on board. A second rescue boat rushed to the spot also got trapped in the same muddy area.
Rescue operations are underway. Fire brigade personnel from Malud reached the site immediately. The Chilika Development Authority (CDA) has deployed a JCB machine to clear the mud and free the vessels. Officials said the boat had strayed from its regular channel, damaging a hose pipe in the process. Once the required part arrives, the boats will be towed out.
As night fell, passengers who had already spent over three hours in panic continued to wait in the middle of the lake while rescue teams worked under torchlight and darkness.
