The body of a 28-year-old man, reported missing from Guwahati’s Hatigaon area, was recovered from the Basistha River on the morning of April 21. Police suspect the incident may be linked to the recent heavy rainfall and flooding in the city.
The deceased has been identified as Akhtar Ali, a resident of Hatigaon, who had been missing since April 19. A missing person complaint had been filed with Hatigaon Police shortly after his disappearance.
A 28-year-old man from Hatigaon, missing since April 19, was found dead in the Basistha River in Guwahati. Police suspect he may have been washed away during recent heavy rains and are investigating the case.
Body Recovered After Two Days
According to officials:
- The body was found early morning on April 21
- Location: Basistha River
- The victim had been missing for two days
An official from Garchuk Police Station said:
“We received information about a body recovered from the Basistha River. After initial investigation, we came to know that the body is that of Akhtar Ali who was missing since two days.”
Police Suspect Link to Flooding
Preliminary findings suggest a possible connection to recent weather conditions:
- The victim may have fallen into a drain during heavy rainfall
- He could have been washed into the river due to the strong water flow
- Investigation is ongoing to establish the exact circumstances
Police also noted that the victim was reportedly specially abled, which may have increased vulnerability during flooding.
Rain-Linked Incidents Raise Concerns
The case comes amid a series of incidents in Guwahati linked to heavy rainfall:
- April 19: Payal Nath died after falling into an open drain in Maligaon
- July 2024: An 8-year-old boy died in Jyotinagar after falling into a drain
Such incidents have repeatedly highlighted risks during waterlogging.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
The incident underscores ongoing concerns:
- Open drains and flooding pose serious safety risks
- Vulnerability of pedestrians during heavy rain
- Need for improved urban safety and drainage systems
What Happens Next
- Police will continue the investigation into the incident
- Post-mortem and further findings may clarify the cause of death
- Authorities may face renewed calls to address drainage hazards
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the victim found in the Basistha River?
The deceased was Akhtar Ali, a 28-year-old resident of Hatigaon who had been missing since April 19.
What is the suspected cause of the incident?
Police suspect he may have been washed into the river after falling into a drain during heavy rainfall.