Assam: Nine swept away in Brahmaputra near Guwahati; 4 rescued, 5 untraced
Nine residents from South Sarania were swept away during a bath in the Brahmaputra near Kharghuli; four rescued, five still missing as search operation intensifies.
GUWAHATI- A tragic drowning incident shook Guwahati on Wednesday after nine people were swept away by the strong currents of the Brahmaputra River near the Kharghuli locality. The group, all believed to be residents of South Sarania, had gone to the riverbank after offering prayers at the Bhakti Kutir Krishna temple located in the hills above the area.
According to preliminary information, the victims entered the river for a bath, unaware of the deceptively intense undercurrents. The Brahmaputra — known for its unpredictable and powerful flow — reportedly pulled them away within moments, giving them little chance to react.
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Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were pressed into action immediately. Four individuals were rescued alive, evacuated to a nearby hospital and are presently under medical supervision. Five others remain missing, prompting a large-scale search operation involving rescue boats, divers and continuous river surveillance.
Authorities have refrained from disclosing identities until families are officially notified. The condition of the rescued persons is yet to be detailed by hospital sources.
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Local officials have urged the public to avoid venturing into deep waters or unfamiliar zones along the Brahmaputra, particularly during periods of strong current or elevated water levels. Such incidents recur frequently during both monsoon and post-monsoon seasons due to shifting riverbeds and rapid flow changes.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns surrounding riverbank safety and public awareness in the Brahmaputra basin, where picnics, bathing and temple visits are common. The situation remains critical as rescue operations continue into the evening. Further updates are expected as search teams expand their efforts downstream.
This a developing story, more details awaited
