Srinagar, Apr 16: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi Tuesday said that the rescue and search operation would continue until all bodies are recovered.
The boat, carrying 19 passengers, sank while navigating the turbulent waters of the River Jhelum, which had risen significantly due to the recent rains.
The incident has claimed the lives of six persons, while three remain missing.
“Police Station Ram Munshi Bagh received information about the incident this morning, following which officers rushed to the site to assist in the rescue operation,” the top Police officer told reporters Tuesday evening after visiting the site. “SDRF, NDRF, and on special requisition, MARCOS have been part of the rescue operation to locate the three missing persons.”
He was accompanied by DIG Central Kashmir, Rajiv Pandey, SSP Srinagar Ashish Mishra besides other officers.
The preliminary reports suggest that the boat capsized due to the strong currents and the swollen river.
Expressing grief over the tragic incident, the IGP urged all Police Stations along the River Jhelum to remain vigilant.
“All the Police Stations falling along the River Jhelum have been asked to remain vigilant even as the rescue-and-search-operation will continue until all bodies are recovered,” he said.
As the rescue operation continues, authorities are urging people to exercise caution and avoid venturing into the swollen rivers and streams until the water levels recede to safer levels.