TV
Panic gripped locals near the Gachhida sluice gate in Balasore’s Bhograi block on Sunday after a boat was swept away by strong currents while crossing a swollen stream.
The boat, carrying three people, including two bike riders, capsized, but the men managed to save themselves by clinging to a nearby tree until help arrived.
Rising Water Levels Create Risk
The rising water level of the Subarnarekha has led to severe waterlogging in the region. The river is flowing over a bridge, yet people continue to travel across it despite the high risk. Government-arranged boats have already reached the area to aid movement, but many still choose to travel on their own in the inundated zone.
Boats Used Despite Danger
In this instance, the three individuals had attempted to cross the flooded stretch by carrying their bikes on a boat. However, the vessel capsized midstream. Though the men managed to save themselves by holding onto a tree, their bikes sank nearly 20 feet deep, making recovery difficult.
Negligence By Inexperienced Boatman
Reports suggest that the boatman operating the vessel was inexperienced. Allegedly, out of greed, he agreed to transport the bikes and their owners despite the danger. His lack of skill in handling the strong current ultimately caused the mishap.
Shortcuts Over Safety
Locals say that despite life-threatening risks, many still prefer to take the direct route across the river instead of opting for a 30-kilometre detour. This desire to save time often puts commuters in peril during the flood season. In this case, villagers rushed to the scene after receiving news and eventually helped rescue the three men stranded on the tree for safety, while their bikes were washed away into deep waters. A video of locals rescuing the stranded men later went viral.
