Gangtok, Dec 23: An Indian Army jawan lost his life after a raft capsized in the Teesta River during a routine training exercise in Sikkim, officials said on December 23.
The incident occurred during the Army’s annual rafting training programme when a raft carrying soldiers overturned in the fast-flowing river. One of the jawans was swept away by the strong current, triggering an immediate search and rescue operation by Army personnel, assisted by a team from the Teesta Rescue Centre.
Officials said river conditions in the area were particularly hazardous as the nearby iron bridge had been damaged during the devastating floods of 2023, altering the flow and increasing risks along the stretch.
Despite sustained search efforts, the body of the missing soldier was recovered downstream near Tista Khola in Kalimpong district of West Bengal.
The deceased was identified as Lance Naik Rajashekhar of the 19 Artillery Regiment. At the time of the accident, the rafting exercise was being conducted between Bardang and Rangpo Mining, a stretch known for strong currents, especially during this season.
Senior Army officials expressed condolences to the bereaved family and said all necessary assistance and support were being extended. An internal review has also been initiated to examine the circumstances of the incident and assess safety protocols during training exercises in high-risk riverine areas.
