DHUBRI: On the night of January 2, a passenger boat carrying more than 50 people, including men, women, and children, became stranded in the Brahmaputra River near Dhubri due to dense fog and low water levels.
Struggling to navigate the perilous conditions, the boat left its passengers stranded in the freezing cold throughout the night.
After reports of the incident emerged, one regular boat and two mechanized boats from Dhubri were dispatched to rescue the stranded passengers.
One of the mechanized boats successfully rescued 15 passengers, but the other two rescue boats became trapped in the dense fog and shallow river depths, further escalating the crisis. They were eventually freed on the morning of January 3.
Passengers and eyewitnesses recounted harrowing experiences, enduring the biting cold without shelter or supplies as they anxiously awaited rescue.
The harsh weather and difficult river terrain have added complexity to the rescue operation. This incident underscores the risks of navigating the Brahmaputra River in winter, a season characterized by dense fog and unpredictable water levels.
Meanwhile, the previous month, a boat carrying passengers from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Caves capsized at sea in Mumbai on December 15. Preliminary reports suggested that the ferry, named Neelkamal, was en route to Elephanta when it sank, carrying around 30 to 35 passengers. Nearby boats swiftly responded to help rescue the individuals on board.
Relief and rescue operations were in progress, with the Navy, JNPT, Coast Guard, three boats from the Yellow Gate Police Station, and local fishermen participating in the efforts. No casualties were reported so far. The incident occurred around 4 pm on Wednesday, and further updates were expected. Public ferries typically operate from the Gateway of India, located east of the monument, to the Elephanta Caves.
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