A boat carrying an unknown number of locals and school going children, capsized in Jhelum river near Srinagar 's Batwara in Jammu and Kashmir, early morning today. Follwing the incident, locals rescued many persons who had drowned but atleast three children are reportedly missing.
The boat is said to have capsized at around 8 am and since then six people have been reported dead and six others have been rescued, three of whom are receiving medical attention, but are said to be in stable condition.
Although the exact number of people on the boat is unknown, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat stated that as per the information, atleast 15 people including seven minors were present on the boat.
Bilal Mohi Ud Din Bhat stated: "At around 7:30 am, a boat capsized here. 15 people including 7 minors and 8 adults were aboard. 6 people have lost their lives, 3 people have been admitted to a hospital and 3 others are in their homes. Rescue operations are underway here by NDRF, SDRF and Army teams to rescue the remaining three people."
The Kashmir valley is currently in the grip of severe weather as a result of which Jhelum is flowing near the danger mark because of incessant rains. Over the last couple of days, heavy rains have led to an increase in the water levels of several water bodies, including Jhelum. A rescue operation to find the missing is currently underway. Additionally, the State Disaster Response Force team has also been deployed.
Were People Warned Of The Rising Water Levels?
When asked if the administration had warned the people regarding the increased water levels of the valley's rivers and streams, Bhat stated: "the authorities had issued an alert on Monday asking people living near the embankments of the river to remain cautious."
"We issued an alert yesterday. I was touring the city till around midnight. The danger level of Jhelum in Ram Munshibagh (in Srinagar) is 18 feet. When the level crosses 10 feet, we issue an initial alert asking people living near the banks to remain cautious. (However), it was flowing below the danger level and the rain had also stopped around 10 pm last night," he added.
J&K Lieutenant Governor Expresses Grief
Several leaders including Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the incident. He took to his X account where he wrote, "I am deeply grieved by the loss of lives due to a boat accident in Srinagar. My thoughts are with the bereaved families & I pray to the Almighty to give them strength to withstand this immense loss. Team of SDRF, Army & other agencies are carrying out relief & rescue work."
JKNC Vice President OmarAbdullah also expressed grief saying, "Deeply concerned by the reports of a boat capsizing on the river Jhelum at Gandabal, Batwara near Srinagar. I hope & pray that all on board this boat are rescued safely & swiftly."