Barpeta: Panic gripped the Rahampur area of Chenga in Assam’s Barpeta district on Tuesday after a passenger boat capsized in the Brahmaputra River, with at least seven passengers feared missing. According to preliminary reports, the boat suddenly overturned while ferrying passengers across the river. Rescue teams rushed to the spot soon after the incident, but several passengers remained untraceable, triggering anxiety and distress among local residents along the riverbanks.
Sources alleged that the boat operator failed to follow basic safety norms, as passengers were reportedly not provided with life jackets. Strong river currents are also believed to have contributed to the mishap, raising serious concerns over negligence and non-compliance with safety regulations. In the aftermath of the incident, emotional scenes were witnessed at nearby ghats as families and locals gathered in large numbers, anxiously waiting for information about their missing relatives. The situation remained tense as search and rescue operations continued.
The incident has once again brought into focus recurring safety lapses in Assam’s river transport system. Authorities have repeatedly expressed concern over overcrowding, unsafe practices, and frequent violations of rules by boat operators on the Brahmaputra. Despite repeated warnings, enforcement has remained weak, allowing risky river travel to continue. Meanwhile, rescue teams, assisted by local fishermen, are carrying out extensive search operations in the river. Officials said no confirmed information regarding the missing passengers had been received till the filing of this report.
