At least six people were killed and three others went missing after a carrying them overturned in the Jhelum River near Srinagar on Tuesday. As many as six people have been rescued from the river so far. The boat was mostly carrying school children and a few locals.
The incident took place near Batwara district of Srinagar. A team of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been deployed to conduct search operations, said Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management officials. Heavy rains have been lashing the Kashmir Valley for the last 72 hours leading to the Jehlum River flowing close to the danger mark.
While sharing details about the tragic incident, the District Magistrate, Srinagar said, "A boat ferrying local school-going Children and others capsized early this morning, leaving the whole area in shock and trauma". He further said, "The rescue operation was launched and is still being carried out to rescue the three missing persons."
Leaders react to the accident
Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and a leader of the National Conference Omar Abdullah on Tuesday expressed concern over the incident and hoped a safe rescue for those involved in the accident. Taking to social media platform X he wrote, "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 and swiftly."
People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti also expressed grief over the incident. Taking to X she wrote, "Shocked to hear about the tragic accident in Batwara where a boat capsized. Reports coming in of several children dead. My deepest condolences to their families and I urge the administration to extend all help possible."
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