Lance Naik S. Rajasekhar of the 191 Artillery Regiment, lost his life after a raft capsized in the Teesta River during a training exercise in Pakyong district, police said on Tuesday.
The incident occurred on Monday during an annual rafting training programme when the raft struck a damaged iron bridge structure and overturned, sweeping the jawan away in the strong current. The bridge had been damaged and partially collapsed into the river during the 2023 floods, officials said.
An immediate search and rescue operation was launched by the Army, assisted by personnel from the Teesta Rescue Centre. After sustained efforts, the body of Lance Naik Rajasekhar was recovered downstream at Tar Khola in Kalimpong district.
Police officials said the body was sent for post-mortem examination as per procedure. The rafting exercise was underway between Bardang and Rangpo Mining when the tragic accident took place.
The untimely death of Lance Naik S. Rajasekhar has cast a pall of gloom over the unit. The Army has expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of personnel during training activities while honouring the supreme sacrifice of the fallen soldier.
