4 Indian Medical Students Drown In Russia While Attempting To Save A Friend

Four Indian medical students have drowned in the Volkhov River near St. Petersburg, Russia. The four students, identified as Harshal Anantrao Desale, Jishan Ashpak Pinjari, Jia Firoj Pinjari, and Malik Gulamgous Mohammad Yakub, who were between the ages of 18 and 20, were studying at Novgorod State University in Veliky Novgorod. They were walking along the Volkhov River in Veliky Novgorod when they fell into the water, according to the Press Trust of India.

Russian authorities have announced an ongoing search for the bodies of four Indian students who tragically drowned in the Volkhov River. The incident occurred when a group of students from Maharashtra's Jalgaon district entered the river for a swim. Despite the immediate rescue efforts, the four students could not be saved. A fifth student, Nisha Sonawane, was rescued and is currently in critical condition, according to a statement from the Russian internal affairs ministry.

The victims, all students of Novgorod State University named after Yaroslav Mudryy, were identified as Jia Pinjari and Jishan Pinjari (siblings from Amalner in Jalgaon district), Mohammad Yakub Malik, and Harshal Desalei (from Bhadgaon, Jalgaon district).

According to a family member, Jishan Pinjari made a video call to his family before the terrible accident. During the phone call, his father and other family members begged Jishan and his pals to leave the sea. Unfortunately, a massive wave carried them away, disconnecting the call and resulting in the fatal tragedy.

The incident occurred when a female Indian student ventured into the river from a beach and found herself in distress. In a heroic but ultimately tragic effort to save her, three of her companions entered the water. Unfortunately, all four students were overcome by the river's currents and drowned. A third male student was successfully rescued by local residents who were present at the scene.

"The students were taking a walk near the city's beach along the Volkhov River, in the evening, during their study-free time. The tragedy was accidental and unexpected. Nisha Bhupesh Sonawane survived. Now she is under the care of medical staff," a university spokesperson stated.

Immediate Response and Coordination

Following the tragedy, Indian diplomatic offices in Russia have been working closely with local Russian authorities to speed the repatriation of the students' bodies to their bereaved families in India. The Indian Embassy in Moscow issued a statement expressing its adherence to assisting the families during this trying period.

"We are working to send the bodies to the relatives as soon as possible. Proper treatment is also being provided to the student whose life has been saved," the Embassy of India in Moscow said on X.

According to the  Consulate General of India in St. Petersburg, these students are studying medicine at Veliky Novgorod State University.

The tragic loss has prompted an outpouring of condolences and support from various quarters. The Consulate  General of India in St. Petersburg highlighted the collaborative efforts with local authorities, stating, "Sincere condolences to the bereaved families." The Consulate General said that it was working with Veliky Novgorod's municipal authorities to convey the mortal remains to the families as soon as possible. "The bereaved families have been contacted and assured of all the possible help," the Consulate added.

Official Statements and Ongoing Search Operations

The Russian authorities have indicated that the search for the bodies has been temporarily halted due to unfavourable conditions, but will resume soon.

Following the incident, the Indian embassy in Russia issued an alert on Friday, urging Indians in Russia to exercise great caution when visiting water areas, "Unfortunate incidents of drowning of Indian students in Russia are taking place from time to time. In such incidents this year so far, four Indian students have lost their lives," the Indian embassy in Moscow said.

The embassy stated that drowning accidents involving Indian students in Russia are not uncommon, citing examples from recent years—two in 2023 and six in 2022. "The Embassy, therefore, urges Indian students in Russia to be extremely careful while going to beaches, rivers, lakes, ponds and other water bodies. Students are advised to take all necessary precautions and safety measures in this regard," the statement said.

As investigations continue and efforts are made to bring the bodies back to India, the focus remains on providing comfort and support to the bereaved families. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time.