Haflong: Three students from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Silchar, drowned at the Bulchol (Hmunthajao) waterfall in Assam’s Dima Hasao district on Saturday afternoon, officials confirmed on Sunday.
The victims have been identified as Sauhard Rai (20) and Sarbavartika Singh (20), both from Uttar Pradesh, and Radhika (19) from Bihar.
According to the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the students were part of a group visiting the picturesque but remote waterfall near Bolsom Bagan in Harangajao when the mishap occurred.
“After receiving information, our teams immediately reached the spot and began rescue operations,” a senior DDMA official said.
He added that rescue efforts were severely hampered by poor mobile connectivity and the difficult terrain, which delayed communication and coordination.
“A medical team was on standby, but all three students were declared dead after being pulled from the water,” the official said.
Authorities have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and have urged the public to exercise caution while visiting waterfalls and other natural sites, particularly during the post-monsoon period when strong and unpredictable currents pose serious risks.
