Gorakhpur – A heartbreaking incident has shaken the city of Gorakhpur, where three young friends lost their lives in a drowning accident in the Rapti River. The tragedy occurred in the Campierganj area, underlining the dangers of the river’s strong currents and deep waters.
Incident Details: What Happened at Rapti River?
On Tuesday, July 15, three teenagers from a village in the Campierganj area went to the Rapti River to see the floodwaters, a common activity during the monsoon season. The group, excited to witness the swollen river, ventured too close to a deep section. Around 3:00 PM, the boys, aged between 14 and 16, began bathing in what they thought was shallow water. Unaware of a sudden drop-off, they were caught in the river’s strong current. Despite efforts from nearby villagers to rescue them, all three drowned. The victims, identified as Priyanshu Paswan from Khutbhar village and two others from nearby Bhirwa village, were pronounced dead after a rescue operation.
Rescue Efforts and Police Response
Local residents raised the alarm when they noticed the boys struggling in the water. Villagers attempted to save them but were unable to reach them in time due to the river’s depth and fast-moving current. The Campierganj police were notified around 3:30 PM, and a rescue team, including divers, was dispatched. After nearly two hours, the bodies were recovered and sent for post-mortem examinations. The police have registered a case of accidental death and are investigating the circumstances. Authorities have urged people to avoid bathing in the Rapti River, especially during the monsoon when water levels are unpredictable. A police spokesperson said, “We are working to raise awareness about the river’s dangers and will increase patrols in the area.”
Authorities Take Action
In response to this incident, the Gorakhpur district administration is taking steps to prevent future tragedies. Officials have promised to install warning signs along dangerous stretches of the Rapti River, a known hotspot for drowning incidents. In recent months, the river has claimed multiple lives, including an 18-year-old girl in February 2025 who drowned while collecting water. The administration is also planning awareness campaigns to educate residents about the risks of swimming in rivers during the monsoon. Police patrols will be increased, and volunteers may be trained to monitor riverbanks during peak seasons.
A Call for Safety Awareness
This drowning incident is not an isolated case in Gorakhpur. The Rapti River has a history of such tragedies, with several deaths reported over the years due to strong currents and sudden depth changes. Local residents have long demanded better safety infrastructure, like barriers or lifeguard posts, at popular river spots. As monsoon rains continue, authorities are urging families to keep a close watch on children and avoid risky activities near rivers. The Gorakhpur tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for caution and community action to save lives.
