Bandipora, May 8: What began as an ordinary afternoon in Hajin turned into a devastating tragedy after three young boys lost their lives in the river Jhelum while washing tent material along its banks in the Chandergeer area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Friday.
According to locals, one of the boys accidentally slipped into the river and was quickly pulled away by the strong currents. Without thinking twice, the other two jumped into the water in an attempt to save their friend. Within moments, all three disappeared into the river.
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Soon after the incident, local residents rushed towards the riverbank. Local volunteers, police, and SDRF teams launched desperate rescue efforts, hoping to bring the boys back alive.
Two bodies were recovered during the initial search operation, while the third was retrieved later after hours of continuous efforts.
The deceased were identified as Adil Ahmad Dar, 18, son of Bashir Ahmad Dar; Sameer Ahmad Dar, 22, son of Mohammad Jamal Dar; and Suhail Ahmad Dar, 22, son of Ghulam Nabi Dar — all residents of Chandergeer Hajin.
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The tragedy has left the entire village in shock. Heart-wrenching scenes were witnessed as grieving families, relatives, and neighbours gathered at the victims’ homes. Residents said the three boys were close friends and known for their simplicity and hardworking nature.
“What hurts the most is that they tried to save each other,” a local resident said, struggling to hold back tears.
Officials said the bodies were shifted to a nearby hospital for medico-legal formalities.
