Youth swept away by strong current while attempting to cross an anicut; police and divers launch rescue operation
Balrampur: A major incident was reported in Ramanujganj of Chhattisgarh’s Balrampur district on Sunday after a youth was swept away by the strong current of the Kanhar River while attempting to cross an anicut.
According to preliminary information, the youth was trying to cross the river using the anicut route when he lost control and was carried away by the strong current. The Kanhar River has been flowing at a high level due to heavy rainfall in the region.
Youth Goes Missing in River
People present near the river reportedly saw the youth being swept away and immediately informed the police.
A police team reached the spot and began a search operation. However, the high water level and strong current made it difficult to locate the missing youth.
A team of Nagar Sena divers was subsequently deployed to assist in the search and rescue operation.
Divers Search Both Sides of River
The divers are conducting searches beneath the Kanhar bridge and along both banks of the river.
The rescue operation continued until late evening, but the youth could not be located. Authorities are continuing efforts to trace him and are searching possible areas where the current may have carried him.
Warning Against Crossing Flooded Anicuts
The incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with crossing rivers and anicuts during the monsoon.
The Kanhar River often witnesses a sharp rise in water levels during heavy rainfall, while the current over anicuts can become extremely strong. Despite the danger, people sometimes attempt to cross such routes, putting their lives at risk.
A similar incident was reported in 2025 when a youth reportedly drowned in the Kanhar River while fishing during the rainy season.
Rescue Operation Continues
Police and rescue teams are continuing the search for the missing youth. Authorities have urged residents to avoid crossing rivers, anicuts and other water channels when water levels are high or currents are strong.
The search operation remains underway.
