India, May 1 -- Survivors of the Bargi Dam boat tragedy in Madhya Pradesh's Jabalpur have alleged glaring safety lapses and ignored warnings moments before the vessel capsized, describing scenes of panic, chaos, and people "crying for help" as water rapidly filled the boat.

Several said passengers were not given life jackets in advance and that repeated pleas to the operator to steer to safety amid strong winds went unheeded.

Nine people have died and several others remain missing after the cruise boat capsized on Thursday. The vessel, carrying 29 people, overturned during a cruise activity meant for tourists. Twenty-four passengers have so far been rescued from the water, as per officials.

Bodies of the dead were recovered and sent fo...