An Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel and his young son were swept away by the strong water currents of the Kameng River in Arunachal Pradesh. The incident, which occurred in mid-October 2024, has left the local community and the defense forces in shock and mourning, as rescue operations continue to search for the father and son.
The Incident
The Kameng River, known for its unpredictable and often treacherous water currents, was the site of this unfortunate incident. According to eyewitnesses, the IAF personnel, identified as Sergeant Rakesh Sharma, was off duty and had gone on an outing with his family to the picturesque banks of the river. Accompanied by his wife and 10-year-old son, Rohit, they were enjoying the serene environment that the river offers, a common attraction for tourists and locals alike.
What was meant to be a peaceful family outing quickly turned into a disaster. The river’s calm exterior is known to hide powerful undercurrents, and as the family ventured closer to the water’s edge, Rohit, the young boy, slipped and fell into the river. Without hesitation, Sergeant Sharma jumped in to rescue his son, but the powerful currents of the Kameng River, fueled by recent rainfall and melting glaciers, overpowered both father and son. Despite his best efforts to save his child, both were swept away, disappearing from view within moments.
A Risky Terrain
The Kameng River flows through the steep and rugged terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, originating from the high Himalayan glaciers and cutting through dense forests. Its unpredictable behavior, particularly during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, makes it one of the most dangerous rivers in the region. Heavy rainfall in recent weeks had swollen the river, increasing both its depth and velocity.
Though local authorities and experts routinely issue warnings about the river’s dangers, the serene beauty of the area often draws people to its banks. The particular stretch where the incident occurred is considered especially perilous due to its narrow gorges and hidden undercurrents, which can easily overwhelm even strong swimmers.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
As soon as the tragic incident was reported, local police and disaster management teams were dispatched to the site. Additionally, the Indian Air Force quickly mobilized its resources, deploying helicopters and divers to aid in the search-and-rescue mission. However, the harsh terrain and the swollen river made immediate rescue efforts difficult.
Local rescue teams, including personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been combing the area, but the search has been hampered by strong currents, poor visibility, and dangerous water conditions. Boats equipped with sonar technology have been deployed to locate the bodies, while specialized divers are navigating the perilous waters in a bid to recover the missing father and son.
Emotional Toll on the Family
Sergeant Sharma’s wife, Meera, has been inconsolable since the incident. Having witnessed the tragic event unfold in front of her eyes, she is now waiting anxiously by the riverbank for any news of her loved ones. She expressed to local media that her husband, a dedicated serviceman, was a strong swimmer and had always ensured their safety during previous family outings. However, the ferocity of the river’s current was unlike anything they had encountered before.
The IAF community has also rallied around the family, offering support and prayers during this devastating time. The tragic loss of Sergeant Sharma, a committed and highly respected airman, has shaken his colleagues and friends, who described him as a devoted family man and a brave soldier. His commanding officer, Group Captain A.K. Singh, released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the incident and emphasizing the collective grief felt by the entire Air Force community.
A Reminder of Nature’s Power
The incident has once again underscored the inherent dangers posed by nature, particularly in remote and ecologically sensitive regions like Arunachal Pradesh. Authorities have issued renewed warnings to the public, urging caution when near water bodies during this time of year. The Kameng River, while a source of life and beauty for the region, has a history of claiming lives when people underestimate its power.
Local environmentalists have noted that the increase in flash floods and unpredictable water levels is becoming more common due to climate change, which is affecting the glacial melt and rainfall patterns in the region. This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the need for stronger preventive measures, more signage, and public awareness about the risks posed by rivers like the Kameng.
As the search for Sergeant Sharma and his son continues, the community, family, and fellow service members wait with heavy hearts. The Indian Air Force has vowed to continue efforts until the father and son are found, and they have expressed their deepest sympathies for the grieving family.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous forces of nature, particularly in areas where rivers, mountains, and wilderness meet. While the Kameng River remains a vital part of the local ecosystem and a source of livelihood for many, it is also a powerful force that commands respect and caution.
