May 8: A tragic incident in the Hajin area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district claimed the lives of three youths after they drowned in the river Jhelum while washing tent material along the riverbank in Chandergeer on Friday.
According to local residents, one of the boys accidentally slipped into the river and was swept away by the strong currents. In an attempt to rescue him, the other two youths immediately jumped into the water. However, all three were overwhelmed by the current and disappeared within moments.
Following the incident, locals rushed to the spot and rescue operations were launched jointly by volunteers, police, and SDRF teams. After hours of extensive searches, all three bodies were recovered from the river.
The deceased have been identified as Adil Ahmad Dar (18), son of Bashir Ahmad Dar; Sameer Ahmad Dar (22), son of Mohammad Jamal Dar; and Suhail Ahmad Dar (22), son of Ghulam Nabi Dar — all residents of Chandergeer Hajin.
The tragedy has left the entire village in deep shock and mourning. Emotional scenes were witnessed at the victims’ homes as relatives, neighbours, and friends gathered to offer condolences. Locals described the three youths as close friends who were known for their humble and hardworking nature.
“What hurts the most is that they tried to save each other,” a local resident said emotionally.
Officials said the bodies were shifted to a nearby hospital for medico-legal formalities.





