Four Indian medical students drowned in a river near St Petersburg in Russia and the Indian Mission in the country is coordinating with Russian authorities to return their bodies to their families at the earliest.

The four students – two boys and two girls aged 18-20 – were studying at the Novgorod State University located in the city of Veliky Novgorod.

Local media reports said an Indian student got into trouble after she ventured into the water off the banks of the Volkhov river and four of her friends tried to rescue her.

While trying to save him, three other people also drowned in the river.

The third boy was rescued safely by the local people.

The Indian Embassy in Moscow said on December 11, “We are working to release the bodies to their families as soon as possible. The student who survived is also being provided appropriate medical treatment.”

The Consulate General of India in St Petersburg said the students were pursuing medical education at the Veliky Novgorod State University.

“Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families,” X wrote.

The Consulate General said it was working with local authorities in Veliky Novgorod to ensure the release of the bodies to their families as soon as possible.

“The bereaved families have been contacted and assured of all possible help,” the statement said.