In a dramatic rescue operation, six devotees trapped in the strong currents of Baner Khad in Kangra district were safely rescued by the fire brigade and police in Himachal Pradesh. The incident occurred when the water level suddenly rose, catching the bathers off guard.


The incident took place at Baner Khad in Kangra District on July 2.


Visuals showed a team of rescuers meticulously pulling devotees to safety from the middle of the river. They used sturdy ropes and life jackets, ensuring each person was securely fastened before guiding them through the strong currents. The rescuers stood at the river's edge, shouting instructions and offering encouragement, while others carefully waded into the water, holding onto the ropes for support.


A major incident was averted when six devotees, who had entered the river to bathe, found themselves trapped by the rapidly rising water level. The swift action of the fire brigade and police ensured their safe rescue.


Fire Officer Ashok Kumar recounted the events, explaining that the fire department's office is located near Baner Khad. On noticing a large number of devotees gathered by the river, with some already in the water, he became alarmed as the water level began to rise. He immediately alerted his colleagues and rushed to the scene. Six devotees were caught in the strong currents, but with the help of ropes, the fire brigade successfully rescued them from the water.


Kumar emphasized the potential for a major disaster had the fire department's office not been so close to Baner Khad. The prompt response prevented what could have been a tragic outcome. Upon receiving information about the incident, the SDM of Kangra also arrived on the scene with a police team.


The SDM has appealed to the public to avoid entering rivers and streams during the monsoon season to prevent any untoward incidents. ASP Kangra, Hitesh Lakhanpal, highlighted that the rescued devotees included four individuals from Uttar Pradesh, who had come to visit the renowned Brajeshwari Devi Temple. They had gone to Baner Khad for a dip when the water level unexpectedly rose, trapping them in the middle.


ASP Lakhanpal stressed the dangers posed by the monsoon season and warned that tourists and devotees should avoid such areas to ensure their safety. He also mentioned that the police would take strict action against those who ignore such warnings.


It is noteworthy that every year, more than a dozen people lose their lives while bathing in Baner Khad. Recently, a young man from Raehen tragically drowned while bathing in the same river. The risk of drowning increases during the rainy season due to sudden rises in water levels, leading to such accidents.