Committee to inquire into ferry tragedy formed

The inquiry will be conducted by Additional Chief Secretary of Assam Jitesh Khosla, who has been asked to submit his report within 30 days, an official statement said.

The committee will ascertain facts and circumstances leading to the mishap and related issues like the condition of the ferry and whether any overloading took place.

It will also determine if there was any lapse on the part of any authority, including violation of rules or licence condition for operation of ferry service.

The Khosla committee will suggest measures to be taken to prevent such recurrences in future including development of a strong early warning system.

Further, it will assess the capability of existing agencies including NDRF to respond and handle a disaster of this magnitude particularly on the Brahmaputra river which has very swift current.

The committee will also enquire into other matters relevant to the incident, including measures to improve the ferry transport system in riverine areas. PTI PPB PC HKS