IMRAN SHAH
DODA: DD, Atleast eight people, who were trapped in the mighty river Chenab, were rescued by the police team from Police Station Assar in Doda District.
As per the information, these trapped people, Ajaz Hussain and Zahid Bhat, were using makeshift wooden rafts. However, they were unable to come out of the flooded river. Hence, they made a phone call to the Assar Police Station for Help.
Earlier, those who came to help these people also get stuck in the flood. Meanwhile, the District Police Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) along with SDRF were immediately swung into action with all necessary rescue equipment, and rushed to the spot.
Although the situation was not suitable due to dense fog over Chenab, which reduced visibility, the police teams and other rescue teams reached there with high-powered torches and coordinated guidance. They helped the stranded persons to navigate towards the woods and eventually reach the riverbank safely.
The rescue operation, which lasted about three hours, was carried out under the immediate supervision of DySP DAR/SDRF Adil Rishu, assisted by SHO PS Assar Inspector Rakesh Bandral, under the direct control and command of SSP Doda Sandeep Mehta, JKPS.
The 48 RR Army unit also extended vital assistance, while a team from PS Batote led by SHO Insp. Vijay Kotwal was also present on the spot.
Due to the prompt and coordinated efforts of Police, SDRF, Army, and local support, all eight individuals were rescued safely without any casualty.
Enquiry in this regard is underway to ascertain the circumstances under which the persons got trapped in the Chenab river. At this stage, it is being verified whether they had entered the river for the purpose of illegally collecting timber in violation of the prohibitory order of the District Magistrate or otherwise.
If during the course of enquiry any deliberate act is established, such as attempt to commit theft of timber or disobedience of lawful order thereby endangering human life, appropriate legal action under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 shall be initiated against the involved persons.
Police have appealed to the general public not to indulge in such risky acts, as venturing into Chenab using unsafe rafts or makeshift means can prove fatal and life-threatening. Anyone found indulging in such unlawful and dangerous activities shall also face strict legal action.DD
