A tragic incident has shaken Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills. Tseseng M Sangma, an Agriculture Department official, was swept away by the swollen Ganol River during a family picnic on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
The river, which had swollen due to heavy overnight rainfall, posed a serious risk. Sangma was caught in the strong currents while attempting to cross it near Sella Wari, a scenic location that has become dangerous due to the recent monsoon rains.
Official Identified as Ampati Agriculture Officer
Police confirmed that Sangma was posted at Ampati in South West Garo Hills. He lived in government staff quarters near Dolampong, under the jurisdiction of Araimile Police Station in Tura.
The family outing turned tragic when Sangma reportedly attempted to cross the river, despite the water being in full spate following continuous rainfall. Witnesses say he slipped and was carried away by the strong current before anyone could help.
Local authorities said the incident highlights the danger of river activities during the monsoon, especially in areas prone to sudden water level surges.
Rescue Teams Launch Intensive Search
Following the accident, police and disaster response teams immediately began a search and rescue operation. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), assisted by local volunteers, scoured the riverbanks late into the night.
As of Monday morning, Sangma remains missing, and rescue efforts have intensified. Boats have been deployed to search the downstream areas, while divers are combing the river where the incident took place.
“The Ganol River is extremely dangerous right now due to strong undercurrents and sudden water rise from upstream. We are doing everything we can to trace the missing official,” a police officer from West Garo Hills said.
Monsoon Rains Make Rivers Treacherous
The Ganol River, a lifeline for West Garo Hills, swells rapidly during monsoon rains. According to local residents, even shallow stretches can become life-threatening after heavy downpours.
Experts have long warned that monsoon tourism and river picnics in the Garo Hills carry serious risks. “Even experienced locals avoid crossing rivers in spate. Tourists and residents alike need to exercise extreme caution during the rainy season,” said a local forest official.
Authorities Issue Safety Advisory
In the wake of the tragedy, district authorities have urged citizens to avoid riverside outings until the monsoon subsides.
“People should stay away from rivers and streams during this period. The monsoon makes every water body unpredictable,” said an official from the West Garo Hills district administration.
The administration is also planning to install caution boards and conduct awareness drives at popular picnic spots to prevent such incidents in the future.
Community in Shock as Search Continues
News of the accident has sent shockwaves across the Agriculture Department and the local community. Sangma, known as a dedicated officer, was popular among his colleagues.
Residents of Ampati and Tura have expressed hope for his safe recovery, even as rescue teams continue their search along the Ganol River.
For now, the district administration remains on high alert, monitoring river water levels and coordinating with SDRF and local volunteers to locate the missing official.
Exercise Caution Near Water Bodies
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of monsoon rivers. Authorities are urging the public to avoid venturing near flooded rivers, especially for picnics or crossings, to prevent further tragedies.
With rescue operations ongoing, the administration has requested that locals cooperate fully and report any sightings downstream to assist in the search.
As Meghalaya continues to battle heavy monsoon rains, the Ganol River accident highlights the need for vigilance, public awareness, and strict adherence to safety guidelines.