SRINAGAR: The bodies of two men who drowned in the Chenab River near Hamirpur-Sidhar village in Akhnoor have been recovered after a four-day search operation.
According to officials, Gajay Singh, 30, and Rakesh Singh, 35, both residents of the Khour area, were bathing in the river on August 9 when they were swept away by the strong currents. The incident occurred near Hamirpur-Sidhar village.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that a search operation was launched immediately after the incident was reported. The body of Gajay Singh was recovered on Wednesday morning. Rakesh Singh’s body was found later in the evening by rescuers, bringing an end to the extensive search efforts.
Following the recovery, the bodies were handed over to the families of the deceased for the completion of last rites. Officials stated that a motorcycle, two mobile phones, and clothing belonging to the victims were found near the riverbank on the day they went missing, providing initial clues to the authorities.
The Chenab River, known for its swift currents, particularly during monsoon seasons, presents a significant hazard to individuals venturing too close to its banks or entering the water. Local authorities have often issued advisories regarding the dangers of bathing in the river due to unpredictable water levels and strong undertows.
This incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with water bodies in the region. Rescue teams, comprising local police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel where applicable, are frequently called upon to manage such unfortunate events. The coordinated efforts of these agencies are crucial in tracing missing persons and recovering bodies in challenging terrain and water conditions.
The area where the drowning occurred is frequented by locals for bathing and recreation, despite repeated warnings from authorities about the inherent dangers. The strong flow of the Chenab, especially after rainfall in upstream areas, can quickly turn a routine activity into a tragedy.
Further investigations into the exact circumstances of the drowning are expected to be conducted by local police. The recovery of the bodies brings a measure of closure to the families, though the community mourns the loss of two residents. Authorities continue to urge the public to exercise extreme caution near rivers and water bodies, especially during periods of high flow.
The recovery process involved extensive efforts by rescue teams who navigated the challenging river conditions. The recovery of the victims’ belongings from the riverbank had aided the authorities in identifying the individuals and initiating the search operation promptly.
The families of Gajay Singh and Rakesh Singh have been provided with necessary support by the local administration. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of the Chenab River and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines issued by the authorities.
The Chenab Times News Desk