Assam River Tragedy: Three Students Missing After School Boat Capsizes in Gangadhar River

A maritime emergency unfolded in Assam's Gangadhar River today when a vessel transporting 22 students capsized during their return from a community feast. While 19 children were successfully rescued in immediate response operations, three students remain unaccounted for, prompting ongoing search and recovery efforts. Preliminary reports indicate the boat was carrying schoolchildren when the incident occurred, raising critical questions about river transport safety protocols during educational excursions. Local authorities have mobilized emergency teams, including river patrol units and divers, to locate the missing individuals. This incident highlights persistent infrastructure challenges in Assam's riverine regions, where water transport remains essential yet vulnerable to seasonal currents and overcrowding. The Gangadhar River has witnessed previous maritime incidents, underscoring the need for enhanced safety regulations and monitoring systems for student transportation. As rescue operations continue, officials are investigating whether weather conditions, vessel capacity, or mechanical failure contributed to the capsizing. The tragedy has drawn attention to rural transportation safety standards, particularly for educational institutions utilizing river routes.