RAMBAN: The intensive multi-agency search and rescue operation launched in Chenab River to trace a youth Ravi Kumar entered fifth day today. Ravi Kumar had slipped into the Chenab River here at Maitra on September 1.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan and Senior Superintendent of Police Arun Gupta visited the incident site and reviewed the ongoing search operation and the action plan being implemented by the agencies involved. Tehsildar Deep Kumar, Dy.SP Kuldeep Sharma and other concerned officers were present on the spot.
The Deputy Commissioner took detailed feedback from the teams deployed on the ground and assessed the challenges being faced in carrying out the operation. He was informed that the search operation is being hampered by the high volume of water, heavy turbulence and swift currents in the Chenab River.
In view of the hazardous conditions, experts have advised against using boats due to the strong water flow and associated risks. The search operation is being carried out with specialized rescue equipment and trained personnel while following all necessary safety protocols.
To intensify the downstream search, four specialized teams have been mobilized, comprising personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Civil QRTs from Ramban, Ramsu, Banihal and the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The teams are carrying out coordinated search efforts at different locations along the river.
After the intervention of the Deputy Commissioner, the authorities of the Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project have restricted the water flow in the river to facilitate the rescue operation and enable the rescue teams to work safely.
SSP Arun Gupta has appealed to the general public, particularly youth, to refrain from venturing close to riverbanks or bathing in the Chenab River, especially during the summer and monsoon seasons. He cautioned that strong currents and sudden turbulence can pose a serious threat to life, even for experienced swimmers.
