Jorhat: Many people are feared missing after two boats with about a hundred passengers sunk after colliding with each other in the river Brahmaputra in Jorhat, Assam.
The incident is said to have taken place in Jorhat's Nimati Ghat, which is about 350 kilometres from Guwahati.
Of the two boats, one was a government passenger ferry that belonged to the Inland Water Transport department and the other was a public boat. The government ferry was coming from Majuli while the other boat was moving in towards the opposite direction.
Many videos are now making rounds on the internet which shows people trying to survive by hanging onto the capsized boat or jumping into the river to swim to safety. Motorbikes and cars of passengers have been washed away.
Assam CM took to Twitter to express his shock and sadness the incident has caused. He has also assured the public by announcing immediate steps that has been taken to help the victims. He wrote, "I am pained at the tragic boat accident near Nimati Ghat, Jorhat. Directed Majuli & Jorhat admin to undertake rescue mission expeditiously with help of @NDRFHQ & SDRF. Advising Min @BimalBorahbjp to immediately rush to the accident site. I'll also visit Nimati Ghat tomorrow."
Former Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal also expressed his sorrow and extended all help possible from his end. He tweeted, "Anguished to learn of the ferry accident in Majuli. I have talked with Assam CM Shri @himantabiswa regarding the accident and he has informed me of ongoing rescue and relief operations. I have directed @shipmin_india to provide all necessary support to help the victims."
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