A routine attempt to cross a river turned into tragedy in Assam’s Sribhumi district on Saturday.
Selim Uddin, a resident of Dighalbag village, was swept away by the powerful currents of the Longai River mishap in Nilambazar.
Locals watched helplessly as the river carried him downstream, disappearing from view.
Incident Sparks Panic
The incident took place around 10 a.m.
Selim, in his forties, had constructed a makeshift bamboo raft to cross the river.
Heavy rains in recent days have swollen the Longai, making the currents unusually strong.
Local residents said he often used the river route to reach farmlands on the opposite bank.
A villager shared:
“Selim was confident, but the river was too dangerous. It happened so quickly.”
Swift Response from Authorities
As news of the mishap spread, panic gripped the village.
Families and neighbours rushed to the riverbank.
Local youths tried to spot Selim from nearby bridges and vantage points.
Police teams from Nilambazar Police Station arrived within the hour.
They coordinated with State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel for immediate search operations.
An officer said:
“We are scanning the river stretch. The currents are strong, making search efforts challenging.”
Rainfall Swells Longai River
The Longai River mishap in Nilambazar highlights a recurring danger in the region.
Heavy monsoon rains have increased water levels drastically.
Villages like Dighalbag remain vulnerable because there are few proper bridges across the river.
People rely on small boats or rafts, risking their lives daily.
A local leader noted:
“We need government intervention. Lives are at stake every monsoon.”
Family in Deep Distress
Selim Uddin’s family remains in shock.
Relatives said he was the sole breadwinner for a family of five.
His wife and children have been inconsolable since hearing the news.
Neighbours are providing support, gathering at the family’s home to offer help and comfort.
A neighbour said:
“Selim was hardworking and kind. We pray he’s found alive.”
Frequent Incidents Raise Concern
The Longai River mishap in Nilambazar is not an isolated case.
In recent years, similar tragedies have claimed lives during the monsoon.
Locals cite the lack of proper bridges as a significant factor.
The region has witnessed repeated pleas for government action, but little has materialized.
An activist explained:
“Every year, we lose lives. The government must build safe crossings over the Longai.”
Authorities Appeal for Caution
Authorities have issued fresh advisories urging people to avoid crossing swollen rivers.
They warned of unpredictable currents and hidden debris beneath the water surface.
Nilambazar police have also instructed villagers to inform authorities before attempting river crossings during the monsoon.
A police spokesperson said:
“No life is worth the risk. We urge residents to wait for safer conditions.”
Search Operations Continue
Search teams remain stationed along the riverbank.
Boats and divers have been deployed, scanning stretches downstream from Dighalbag village.
Local fishermen have joined the search, hoping their knowledge of the river will help locate Selim.
However, officials admitted chances diminish with each passing hour.
An SDRF official said:
“Strong currents hinder visibility. But we won’t stop until we find him.”
Call for Infrastructure Development
Selim’s tragedy underscores the urgent need for better infrastructure in rural Assam.
Locals believe proper bridges and safe transport options could prevent future mishaps.
Community leaders plan to submit a memorandum to district officials demanding immediate action.
A local resident said:
“We deserve safety. How many more must die before the government acts?”
Community Holds on to Hope
As darkness fell on Saturday, villagers gathered in silent prayer.
Families lit lamps along the riverbank, hoping Selim might still be found alive.
For many, the Longai River mishap in Nilambazar has left a deep scar, reminding them of the dangers lurking in swollen rivers.
While search operations continue, the community clings to hope, unwilling to give up on one of their own.
