Four students die after suspected toxic gas exposure while cleaning an underground water tank at a residential Sanskrit school (gurukulam) in Vrindavan, Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh. A fifth student survives and receives treatment, police and officials say.
Officials say the incident starts after a foul smell is detected from the tank, which is about 12 to 14 feet deep. The students attempt to clean it; one student goes inside and becomes unconscious. Others enter to rescue him and all five become unconscious inside the tank. Bystanders pull them out and take them to hospital, where four are later declared dead. The deceased students are reported to be aged between 17 and 20, and their families are being informed.
Outlets also report that the district magistrate orders a magisterial inquiry to determine how the incident occurred and whether the gurukulam has the required recognition. Police say CCTV footage at the site is being examined and other nearby gurukulams may be audited to prevent recurrence. The chief minister is informed and directs relief and treatment, while further legal action is expected based on families’ complaints.