IIT Guwahati Student Drowns in Brahmaputra River; Friend Rescued

Guwahati, May 25: A third-year BTech student of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati drowned in the Brahmaputra River on Saturday evening after an apparent accidental fall near the Lathia Bagicha Ghat. Another student who was with her was rescued shortly after the incident, police said.

The two women had ventured outside the IIT campus to spend time by the riverside when they slipped and fell into the water, according to initial police reports. The incident was reported immediately, prompting a search operation by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

While the second student was pulled out of the river within ten minutes, the body of the deceased was recovered after nearly three hours of intensive search efforts by divers.

The victim was identified as a final-year student in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) at IIT Guwahati. The institute issued an official statement expressing profound grief over the loss.

“It is with profound grief and deep sorrow that IIT Guwahati informs of the untimely demise of a BTech 3rd-year student of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), who tragically lost her life in a drowning incident near Lathia Bagicha Ghat yesterday evening,” the statement read.

“This is an irreparable loss to the Institute community. IIT Guwahati extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones during this moment of immense sorrow and stands in solidarity with them, offering all possible support during this difficult time,” it added.

The local police have registered a case and are conducting a formal investigation into the circumstances of the incident. No foul play is suspected at this stage, officials said.

The Brahmaputra, one of the major rivers in Assam, flows through Guwahati and is known for its strong currents and sudden changes in depth. Local authorities have repeatedly cautioned residents and visitors about the dangers of venturing into the river, particularly during the monsoon season when water levels rise.

Lathia Bagicha Ghat, a popular spot for locals and students, is not designated for bathing or swimming, and there are no safety barriers or lifeguards posted at the site. The incident has renewed calls for better safety measures along the riverfront.

The deceased student's family has been informed, and arrangements are being made to transport the body to their hometown after the post-mortem examination, police said.

Counseling sessions are being organized at IIT Guwahati to help students cope with the tragedy. The institute has also assured full cooperation with the authorities in the ongoing investigation.