Drowned Bandipora youth was engaged 10 days before

Bandipora, Aug 16: The 24-year-old youth, Tufail Ahmad Shah, who drowned to death in Papchan Nallah in Bandipora on Friday was engaged just ten days ago, his close family members said.

“The family was celebrating his Nikkah held some ten days ago, and was soon to get married,” a family member said.

“The happiness has turned into mourning,” he added.

Son of the retired SI, Shah was recruited as an SPO in the police department and was a lone brother among his two sisters.

The family members said Shah was tall and athletic built and was known in the village for his good character.

Notably, the streams in the Bandpora like Madhumati and Arin, are witnessing an increased flow following cloud bursts. Authorities have warned against venturing near water bodies and flooded roads and bridges.

The death come days after an 18 year old, Nazakat Ali Khatana from Rajouri drowned in Madhumati stream on August 10.

In both events SDRF and locals launched rescue efforts and rushed them to hospital, but Tufail and Nazakat were declared dead on arrival.

The back to back incidents have created deep anguish among residents who are demanding tougher guidelines against ban on swimming.

“It is a tragedy,” they added.