Four students narrowly escape after being swept away by swollen river along India–Bhutan border; hospitalised

Four school students from Sankardev Shishu Niketan in Dimakuchi had a narrow escape after they were swept away by the swollen waters of the Shuklai River while returning home from school in Assam's Udalguri district along the India–Bhutan border.

The incident occurred at Badlapara after school hours when the students attempted to cross the river. The strong current carried away all four children along with their bicycles and school bags, triggering panic among residents of the border village.

Local residents and others rushed to the spot after learning about the incident. The students were subsequently rescued and shifted to a nearby hospital, where they are undergoing treatment. Their condition is reported to be stable.

The mishap has heightened concerns over the safety of students and commuters who rely on river crossings in the border region, particularly during the monsoon when water levels rise sharply and currents become hazardous.

The incident has also sparked resentment among residents of Badlapara. Locals alleged that Paul Toppo, the council member representing the Nonoi-Serfang constituency, failed to respond despite being informed about the incident. They claimed no immediate assistance or official intervention was forthcoming following the mishap.

The incident has once again brought attention to the vulnerability of remote border villages during the rainy season and the need for safer connectivity and prompt emergency response mechanisms in flood-prone areas.