Bandipora, June 2, 2026 : In a swift and commendable rescue operation, the Indian Army successfully rescued several civilians who became stranded in the Kishanganga River due to strong water currents in the Gurez sector of Bandipora district in north Kashmir, officials said on Tuesday.
According to officials, the incident occurred late Monday night in the Chakwali area of Gurez Valley when multiple civilians found themselves trapped after their vehicles got stuck amid rising waters and powerful river currents. The situation became increasingly challenging due to darkness and difficult weather conditions.
The Kishanganga River, which originates in the Indian side of Kashmir and later flows into Pakistan-administered Kashmir where it is known as the Neelum River, has witnessed increased activity in recent weeks as tourist arrivals to Gurez Valley have surged amid the ongoing heatwave across the Kashmir Valley.
Officials said that upon receiving information about the stranded civilians, Army personnel immediately launched a rescue operation despite the difficult terrain and hazardous river conditions. The troops reached the affected area and safely evacuated all stranded individuals without any reported injuries.
Following the rescue, the civilians were provided immediate relief and assistance, including blankets and other essential support, to ensure their safety and comfort after the ordeal.
The rescued individuals expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Army for its prompt response and professionalism during the emergency.
“We were stuck in the river when Army jawans came and rescued us,” one of the rescued civilians said while recalling the tense moments before help arrived.
Another resident praised the soldiers’ efforts, stating that the Army personnel extended every possible assistance during the operation and ensured the safe evacuation of all those trapped.
The successful rescue once again highlights the Indian Army’s crucial role not only in safeguarding the nation’s borders but also in providing humanitarian assistance and emergency support to civilians in remote and challenging regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
