Local resident leads rescue after Mahindra Thar stuck in Balasan river at Dudhia
A Mahindra Thar carrying four occupants was trapped mid-stream in the Balasan river at Dudhia after the water level rose suddenly. Local resident Devkumar Rai,
In Dudhia, Darjeeling, a serious incident was averted after a Mahindra Thar carrying four people became stranded in the middle of the Balasan river when the water level rose quickly on Tuesday night. Local residents said the vehicle had entered the riverbed at a time when the flow appeared manageable.
Within minutes, the situation changed. The water swelled against the vehicle and the four occupants were left trapped mid-stream with limited options to move out safely. In the monsoon season, rainfall in the upper catchment areas can raise hill rivers rapidly, and this is one reason such crossings become risky.
Villagers reach the vehicle and pull all occupants to safety
At the critical moment, local resident Devkumar Rai stepped in. He gathered other villagers and coordinated an immediate rescue effort despite nighttime conditions and the strong current in the river. The group reached the stranded vehicle and then pulled the four occupants out one by one.
All four people were reported safe after the rescue. While the occupants managed to get out, the Mahindra Thar remained stuck in the riverbed. Residents said attempts to retrieve the vehicle are expected once the water level drops again.
Why such river crossings turn dangerous in the monsoon
The incident highlights how quickly river conditions can change during the rainy season. Authorities and disaster management experts often advise against driving through riverbeds and causeways even when the water looks shallow, because the force of a sudden surge can overpower vehicles.
A video of the incident was shared for public awareness. The footage was credited to Singer Nabin. Local residents praised Rai and the villagers who joined him, saying the rescue showed quick action and community support when it mattered most.
