Dhubri: Over 200 passengers faced a harrowing experience Tuesday morning when a boat travelling from Fakirganj to Dhubri became stranded in the Brahmaputra River. A mechanical snag, suspected to be an issue with either the anchor or steering, brought the vessel to a grinding halt amidst unusually low water levels, leaving those on board temporarily trapped for nearly an hour.
Panic and confusion reportedly rippled through the passengers as the boat lay immobilised in the river’s mid-channel. Eyewitnesses and initial reports suggest a concerning delay in the district administration’s response, with no immediate rescue efforts launched during the crucial first hour of the incident. This has raised questions regarding the preparedness and safety protocols for riverine transport in Assam, a region heavily reliant on its waterways.
Eventually, small mechanised boats were deployed to the scene, meticulously ferrying all passengers to safety. While there have been no official reports of injuries, authorities are yet to confirm the condition of the boat crew or offer a comprehensive technical explanation for the unexpected mechanical failure. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and risks associated with river travel, particularly when water levels are atypical.
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