An unsung hero of Chenab Valley, Mushtaq Sheikh, who has been saving precious lives from drowning since the last 30 years, and has also trained many youth for the purpose, has rued the government’s neglect in the noble cause.
Mushtaq Sheikh, a diver, has saved many people from drowning in Chenab River in the accident prone Chenab Valley besides helping people in retrieving the bodies without any help from the government.
He doesn’t have any diving suit or other allied items which the professional divers have, but still he saves people from drowning in Chenab River by risking his own life.
He has earned a name for himself by saving people and retrieving bodies from gusty Chenab River without any help from the government whatsoever.
He has saved nearly hundred (100) lives and retrieved over 300 bodies.
He said that he has been doing all this without proper diving gear.
In a region which is prone to road accidents and vehicles roll down in Chenab River, Mushtaq is often approached by the people to either help save lives or retrieve bodies, which he does without any gains in favor.
He has also trained a team under the name of “Chenab Rescuers” and many youth who are labourers emulate him.
They earn their livelihood by carrying Chenab sand to construction sites. They are poor but do this job without seeking any favors.
They appealed to the government to recognize the “Rescue Group” and help them financially, provide employment and provide necessary items for saving lives from drowning.
Mushtaq Sheikh said that he needs proper diving gear as he is still carrying out the nobler cause with only single boat.
Ishtiaq Ahmed Dev spokesperson of Doda Development Front said that it is a pity that government has not recognized the noble work being carried out by Mushtaq and not provided him any help.
Mukesh Parihar, national council member of AISF, in a statement said that it is unfortunate that the government has forgotten the services of Mushtaq Sheikh and his associates.
He also demanded recognition of the services of Mushtaq Sheikh and financial help to him so that he continues his noble work in more effective manner.