The West Siang Fishing Tragedy in Arunachal ended in sorrow as the missing man was found dead. Full details of the incident and investigation inside.
West Siang Fishing Tragedy: Missing Arunachal Man Found Dead in River
What started as a calm fishing trip ended in heartbreak for one family in Arunachal Pradesh. A local resident who went missing in the serene waters of West Siang has been found dead, bringing closure to a search operation that lasted several days.
The West Siang Fishing Tragedy has left the village mourning and raised important questions about safety protocols in remote riverside areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
Incident Location: West Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh
The West Siang Fishing Tragedy occurred near the Siyom River, a popular spot for fishing among locals. Known for its pristine waters and scenic beauty, the area is also marked by strong undercurrents and deep river bends that can turn fatal within seconds.
The victim, identified as 34-year-old Tayum Raji, went missing while fishing with two friends on the morning of July 31. When he didn’t return, locals feared the worst and informed local authorities.
Search Operation and Discovery
Immediately after Tayum Raji was reported missing, villagers and family members began a frantic search along the riverbanks. The Arunachal Pradesh Police and local rescue volunteers soon joined the effort.
Role of Local Authorities
The West Siang Fishing Tragedy prompted swift action from the West Siang district administration. Divers and river trackers were deployed by the disaster response team.
For nearly 48 hours, the search team combed through the river using boats, ropes, and aerial drones. On the evening of August 2, the body of Tayum Raji was found approximately 1.5 kilometers downstream, lodged between rocks.
Timeline of the West Siang Fishing Tragedy
Here’s how the West Siang Fishing Tragedy unfolded:
- July 31, Morning – Tayum Raji leaves home with friends to fish.
- July 31, Afternoon – Friends report he went missing after trying to retrieve a snagged net.
- July 31, Evening – Village search begins.
- August 1 – Local police and disaster team join search efforts.
- August 2, 4:30 PM – Raji’s body recovered from the river.
Reactions from Family and Community
The entire village came to a standstill upon hearing about the West Siang Fishing Tragedy. Hundreds gathered outside Tayum Raji’s home to offer prayers and support.
“He Was the Only Son”
“He was my only son,” said his grieving mother, tears streaming down her face. “He only went to catch fish for the family. I never thought I’d see him like this.”
Community leaders have demanded that the district improve rescue infrastructure and signage in popular fishing zones.
Causes and Risk Factors in the West Siang Fishing Tragedy
While the exact cause of the drowning is still under investigation, some key risk factors were noted in the West Siang Fishing Tragedy:
Strong River Currents
The Siyom River is known for its deceptive depth and shifting currents that can overwhelm even strong swimmers.
Tangled Fishing Nets
Witnesses say Tayum entered the water to untangle his net when he was swept away. This is not the first time such a scenario has turned deadly.
No Safety Measures
There were no warning signs, no life jackets, and no local guardrails in the area.
Local Authorities Respond
District Commissioner Mito Dirchi expressed deep condolences to the family and assured the public of stronger safety measures.
“We cannot undo what happened, but we can ensure that tragedies like the West Siang Fishing Tragedy never occur again,” he said.
H3: Proposed Measures
- Erecting danger zone boards near riversides
- Providing training and awareness sessions for villagers
- Creating an emergency response fund for remote areas
- Distributing life vests in popular fishing zones
The Danger of Solo Fishing in Arunachal’s Remote Areas
The West Siang Fishing Tragedy is sadly not an isolated case. In remote districts like Shi-Yomi, Upper Subansiri, and West Kameng, rivers offer livelihood but also present life-threatening risks.
Safety Tips for Fishing in River Areas:
- Never go alone – always have someone watching from land
- Wear a life jacket, even in shallow waters
- Avoid overreaching to untangle nets
- Know the flow – local fishermen usually understand currents
- Avoid rivers during rainy seasons due to flash floods
Read More: “Breaking New Ground: Civil–Military Team-Up in Arunachal’s Anjaw”