Katihar: What was meant to be an ordinary day for a group of farmers in Katihar district ended in a heartbreaking tragedy. On Thursday, in Kursela block, a small boat (dinghy) overturned in strong winds at the confluence of the Kosi and Ganga rivers. The boat was carrying farmers who were travelling to the Diara region to sow Khesari crops. Five farmers drowned, three survived by swimming to the shore, and two remain missing.
The incident happened when the boat, coming from Pathal Tola, reached near the Diara riverbank. The strong winds suddenly rocked the dinghy, causing it to tip over. Those who managed to swim out of the river later said the current was too powerful, making it almost impossible to save everyone. Local boatmen and divers rushed to help, while villagers gathered at the ghat in shock and sadness.
The two missing farmers have been named as Santlal Sahni, aged 70, and Phuleswar Mandal, aged 65, both residents of Kheriya under Kursela police station. The three who escaped – Indal Mandal, Vakil Chaudhary and another farmer – told officials they were lucky to survive the raging waters. Families of the missing men waited anxiously at Kheriya Ghat as the search continued.
Officials confirmed that rescue teams with divers and boats are still looking for the two farmers. Revenue officer Akash Kumar, who was present at the site, said the strong current of the river is making the operation difficult. The accident has left the whole area mourning, with the festive spirit of Dussehra overshadowed by sorrow.
