Tura, Aug 4: The search for the Subdivisional Agricultural Officer of South West Garo Hills, Teseng M Sangma now entered its second day on Monday as rescue teams intensified efforts along the Ganol River near Pelga Wari
According to local sources, Sangma was seen near the riverbank on Sunday afternoon when he may have slipped and been swept away by the strong current.
However, the information reached Araimile Police Station at approximately 3:45 PM on August 3, following which the Officer-in-Charge, John CH. Sangma, immediately initiated search and rescue operations.
Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Special Rescue Team (SRT), Fire and Emergency Services, local police and volunteers were swiftly mobilised. The operation initially began at Sela Sela Wari, based on preliminary inputs from locals.
“We responded immediately and coordinated with officers from Damalgre and Garubada, who joined without delay,” Officer Sangma said.
Early today morning, teams resumed their search about one kilometre downstream at Pelga Wari, a stretch known for its rocky terrain and dangerous currents. Heavy rainfall in upstream areas and the release of water from the Ganol Dam have significantly raised water levels, hampering visibility and making conditions hazardous for divers and rescue personnel.
The search began at 6:00 AM, with multiple agencies working in coordination. Additional Superintendent of Police, Priyanka W. Sangma, told HubNews, “Our teams have been working since morning, and downstream police stations in South West Garo Hills have been alerted in case the body is sighted further along the river.”
Locals reported seeing a floating body about 500 metres downstream from the original location late Sunday evening, but search operations had to be suspended due to nightfall and safety concerns.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid riverbanks while operations are underway. The Ganol River, swollen by overnight rain and dam discharge, poses a serious threat to both rescue teams and onlookers.
A senior SDRF official at the site stated, “We are doing everything we can, but the river conditions are strong undercurrents, low visibility and murky water which make it extremely difficult to locate anything.”
The situation has cast a shadow over Pelga Wari and nearby villages. Family members, friends and concerned residents continue to gather along the river in hopes of positive news. Community leaders have also appealed for additional resources to be deployed.
As of the time of filing this report, no recovery has been made.
Authorities have assured that the search operation will continue without interruption until the officer is found.
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