Updated September 8th, 2021 at 20:06 IST

Assam ferry tragedy: HM Amit Shah dials CM Sarma to take stock; Sonowal extends help

Union Home Minister Amit Shah dialed CM Himanta Biswa Sarma to enquire about the ferry capsize tragedy on the Brahmaputra river in Assam's Jorhat

Reported by: Gloria Methri
PTI/ANI | Image:self
Advertisement

Union Home Minister Amit Shah dialed Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to enquire about the ferry capsize tragedy on the Brahmaputra river in Assam's Jorhat on Wednesday. He took an update on the rescue operations at the Nimati Ghat and the conditions of those rescued so far. The Home Minister assured Sarma that the Centre is ready to lend all possible help in the rescue operations. 

Several people are reported to be missing after two ferries collided in the Brahmaputra river today. As per reports, one ferry was carrying over 100 passengers, including children. One of the boats was coming from Majuli heading towards Nimatighat while the other was going in the opposite direction. The collision took place around 4:30 pm. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have begun rescue operations and 40 people have been saved so far. 

Union Minister Sonowal extends held in rescue ops

Earlier, Union Minister of Shipping, Ports, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal expressed deep anguish and concern over the ferry accident in Assam's Majuli. He called up CM Sarma and took stock of ongoing rescue and relief operations. Moreover, officials of the Ministry have been directed to provide all necessary support to help the victims.

CM also Sarma expressed deep concern over the tragic boat accident near Nimati Ghat and directed the District Administration of Majuli and Jorhat districts to undertake rescue missions expeditiously with the help of NDRF and SDRF. He also directed Minister Bimal Bora to immediately travel to the site of the incident for taking stock of the situation.

The Chief Minister's Principal Secretary has been tasked with monitoring the developments round-the-clock. CM Sarma will himself visit Nimati Ghat on Thursday to evaluate the situation. Meanwhile, the Jorhat district administration has created a helpline number for people to share information about missing passengers of the ferry accident. Concerned persons can contact the District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC) on 1077 (Toll-Free) number or mobile number 7635961522.

Advertisement

Published September 8th, 2021 at 20:06 IST