In a tragic incident on Tuesday, a boat capsized in the Jhelum river in Srinagar’s Gandbal area, resulting in at least four casualties and leaving several individuals missing. The deceased have been identified as Firdousa (30), Raziya (18), Shabir (23), and Gulzar (30), while three survivors are currently receiving treatment at local hospitals.

Initial reports suggest that among the occupants of the ill-fated boat were possibly students who routinely crossed the river using this means of transportation. The incident occurred against the backdrop of incessant rains over the past few days, which have led to a rise in water levels in various water bodies, including the Jhelum.

Following the capsizing, a swift rescue operation was launched, with the State Disaster Response Force team deployed to the scene. Despite ongoing efforts, the search for the missing individuals continues.

Meanwhile, the heavy rainfall has exacerbated the city’s infrastructure woes, with a dysfunctional drainage system causing major waterlogging issues on several key roads in the summer capital. According to reports from Greater Kashmir, commuters faced significant challenges navigating through the city as rainwater inundated dug-up roads, exacerbating existing potholes and hazards.

Residents, particularly in areas such as Khanyar, Babademb, Nowhatta, Bemina, and Batamaloo, have expressed frustration over the lack of effective measures to address the recurring problem of waterlogging, which poses risks to both commuters and pedestrians alike.