Srinagar, May 2: A 24-year-old youth from Rainawari area of Srinagar is feared to have drowned in Dal Lake on Friday after attempting to rescue his employer when their boat capsized due to strong winds.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over safety preparedness during inclement weather, particularly around Srinagar’s water bodies. The missing youth has been identified as Taufeeq Ahmad Chopan, son of Ghulam Mohammad Chopan of Chopan Mohalla, Rainawari, Srinagar. He was employed by Majeed Khosa, who was also on the boat at the time of the mishap.
Eyewitnesses said that sudden gusty winds overturned the boat, throwing both persons into the water. Taufeeq, in a valiant attempt, managed to push his employer towards safety but was himself swept away by the choppy waters. Rescue operations involving the SDRF, police and local volunteers were immediately launched. However, the body had not been retrieved at the time of reporting. Khosa was rescued and admitted to hospital, where his condition is said to be stable.
Videos circulating on social media depict scenes of panic on the lake as strong winds battered the area, catching several people off guard. Locals allege that most of those present were not equipped with any safety gear—an omission they believe significantly contributed to the potential tragedy. “The lake often witnesses such gusty conditions, but little seems to be done to ensure safety protocols,” a local resident said. “Had there been life jackets or proper rescue preparedness, we might not be talking about a missing youth today.” Authorities have once again urged residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution when venturing into water bodies during volatile weather conditions.
