TNR News Network
Paonta Sahib:
A man trying to rescue a cow from a swollen stream in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh was swept away by the strong current and is currently missing. The incident occurred at Ajiwala village near Toka Nagla under the Paonta Sahib subdivision.
The man, identified as Balwant Singh, reportedly entered the rapidly flowing khud (rivulet) to save a cow that had been trapped in the waters. However, the force of the current overwhelmed him and he was carried away before anyone could intervene.
A video of the incident has surfaced, showing Balwant being pulled under by the powerful flow, a stark reminder of the dangers of entering flooded water bodies. Despite immediate rescue efforts, there has been no trace of him so far.
Search and rescue underway
Upon receiving the information, Paonta Sahib SDM Gunjit Singh Cheema rushed to the spot and coordinated relief efforts. Local authorities, with the help of residents, have deployed divers and launched a full-scale search operation in the area.
“The search is ongoing and all necessary resources have been deployed,” SDM Cheema said. “We urge citizens not to put themselves at risk and to contact emergency services in such situations.”
Schools shut amid rain alert
Meanwhile, in view of the continued threat of heavy rains, all educational institutions, anganwadi centres and daycare facilities in Sirmaur district remained closed on Saturday. Though rainfall intensity reduced during the day, rivers and streams across the region remain in spate, prompting authorities to remain on high alert.
Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma has advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay at safe locations until the weather situation improves.
