Chandigarh, August 2: Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Shri Gulab Chand Kataria on Sunday announced a financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for each of the four bereaved families whose minor sons lost their lives after being swept away by the strong current of the River Ganga during the Kanwar Yatra in Haridwar on July 31.

The Administrator visited the bereaved families this evening to express his condolences and offer support in the wake of the tragedy. Interacting with the family members, he conveyed his sympathies and assured them that the Chandigarh Administration stood firmly with them during this difficult time.

Describing the incident as deeply distressing, Shri Kataria said the loss of four young lives had caused immense grief not only to their families but to the entire city. He noted that the deceased boys belonged to economically weaker families, with some living in extremely difficult financial circumstances, making the tragedy even more heartbreaking. He prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls and wished strength to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss.

Announcing the relief from the Governor's Discretionary Fund, the Administrator said that each of the four affected families would receive ₹5 lakh as financial assistance. He observed that while no monetary support could ever compensate for the loss of a child, the assistance was intended to provide immediate relief to the bereaved families during this period of immense hardship.

Shri Kataria also directed the concerned officers to extend all possible assistance to the affected families and ensure that they receive every necessary support from the Chandigarh Administration without delay.

Reiterating the Administration's commitment to stand by the bereaved families in this hour of grief, the Administrator assured them of every possible help and support.