Several feared drowned, many missing as boats collide in Brahmaputra river

In a tragic incident that took place in Assam, a large boat sank in the Brahmaputra river following a collision with a ferry near Nimati Ghat on Wednesday leaving many feared dead.

The collision took place when a private boat was headed to Majuli from Nimati Ghat and a government-owned ferry was coming from Majuli.

The accident occurred at about 4.30 pm today, officials said. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) together have launched a rescue operation. Quoting officials, media reports said that more than 120 passengers were on board the boat.

News Agency ANI reported that till now 40 people have been rescued but several others are feared drowned in the Assam boat accident.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his sorrow over the incident. The Prime Minister took to Twitter and wrote, “All possible efforts are being made to rescue the passengers.”

Taking to Twitter, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote, “I am pained at the tragic boat accident near Nimati Ghat, Jorhat. Directed Majuli & Jorhat admin to undertake rescue mission expeditiously with help of @NDRFHQ & SDRF. Advising Min @BimalBorahbjp to immediately rush to the accident site. I’ll also visit Nimati Ghat tomorrow.”

Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Assam Chief Minister to enquire about the incident and offer all possible help for rescue operations.