In a heartbreaking incident, four Indian students studying at Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University in Veliky Novgorod, Russia, tragically drowned in the Volkhov River. The incident involved five students from the Jalgaon district of Maharashtra. One of the students survived and is currently receiving medical treatment, bringing some relief amidst the tragedy.
According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) the Indian Consulate in St. Petersburg is actively involved, staying in touch with both the university and local authorities to provide necessary assistance. So far, local emergency services have recovered two bodies from the river. The search for the remaining two missing students is ongoing, with hopes for closure for the families involved. The Consulate has expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased students, emphasizing their commitment to support during this difficult time.
Efforts are underway to repatriate the bodies back to India. The Consulate is coordinating with local authorities and the district administration in Jalgaon to ensure the families receive timely updates and support. This coordination is crucial to managing the logistics and emotional toll on the families. The community in Jalgaon and the student body in Russia are both deeply affected by this incident, highlighting the need for continued cooperation and assistance from all parties involved.
The tragedy has prompted calls for increased safety protocols and awareness programs to prevent such incidents in the future. The Consulate’s ongoing efforts to support the affected families and ensure the safe return of the mortal remains reflect their commitment to the welfare of Indian students overseas.