At least 46 people, including 37 children and 7 women, have drowned while celebrating a Hindu religious festival in eastern India, according to local officials.
The fatalities were reported across 15 districts within the last 24 hours. A disaster management official noted that the victims died while participating in a bathing ritual in rivers and ponds that had swelled due to recent flooding.
The three-day Jivitputrika festival, which celebrates the well-being of children, also involves mothers fasting for their children.
Officials in Bihar indicated that many attendees disregarded the hazardous water levels in rivers while bathing in celebration.
Concerns are growing that the overall death toll may rise. State authorities have announced that families and relatives of the victims will receive compensation.