Narrow escape for Sourav Ganguly’s brother, his wife as boat capsizes at Puri beach

Snehasish Ganguly, elder brother of former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, and his wife Arpita had a terrifying experience at Puri beach. On May 24, 2025, their speedboat capsized while they were enjoying a boat ride. Thankfully, both escaped without serious injury.

The Incident

The accident happened around 6 PM near the Puri Lighthouse, a popular tourist spot. The couple was about 20 meters from the shore when a large wave struck the boat. The impact flipped the vessel, tossing Snehasish and Arpita into the sea.

Local fishermen and lifeguards responded immediately. Using rubber floats, they pulled the couple to safety. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic but praised the rescuers’ quick action.

A Life-Threatening Experience

Snehasish Ganguly, also the President of the Cricket Association of Bengal, called the incident “life-threatening.” He said, “The boat capsized suddenly. We feared for our lives. Thanks to the fishermen and lifeguards, we survived. I thank Lord Jagannath for saving us.”

The couple’s ordeal highlights the risks of water sports in Puri, despite the town’s popularity. What started as a fun outing nearly ended in tragedy.

Safety Concerns Raised

After the accident, Arpita Ganguly raised concerns about the safety measures. She claimed the boat was underloaded, carrying only three or four passengers when it could hold ten. This imbalance may have made the boat unstable.

She added that operators reassured them despite the rough sea conditions. “They said it was safe, but it was not,” she said. Arpita suggested the operators prioritized profit over safety.

This raises questions about the safety standards for water sports at Puri beach. Tourists often face such risks, but many operators ignore safety protocols.

Official Response and Investigation

The Puri district administration quickly launched an investigation. Officials want to find out if operators followed safety rules, including passenger limits and weather checks.

They also aim to review the efficiency of emergency services and lifeguards on duty. The goal is to improve safety and prevent future accidents.

Public Reaction and Awareness

News of the Ganguly couple’s escape spread fast. People expressed concern over water sport safety in Puri. Many urged the authorities to enforce stricter rules.

Experts recommend better training for boat operators and lifeguards. They also suggest regular equipment checks and clear safety signage. Wearing life jackets should be mandatory for all passengers.

Tourist Safety in Coastal Areas

This incident highlights the challenges tourist spots face in balancing fun and safety. Water sports attract many visitors, but risks remain high.

Similar accidents across India often result from poor regulation and oversight. Authorities must create strong safety frameworks to protect visitors.

A Cautionary Message

Snehasish Ganguly advised tourists to stay cautious. “Always verify operator credentials. Check that boats are maintained and life jackets are worn. Your safety comes first,” he said.

The couple also praised the local fishermen and lifeguards. Their bravery and quick action saved lives that day.

Conclusion

The capsizing of the speedboat at Puri beach was a close call for Snehasish and Arpita Ganguly. The incident exposed gaps in safety measures and raised important questions.

As Puri welcomes tourists, it must strengthen safety rules. Tourists need to stay alert, and operators must follow regulations strictly. Authorities should enhance monitoring and emergency preparedness.

Ultimately, this event reminds us of nature’s power and the need for caution when engaging with it. It also shows the importance of community support during crises.