Bhubaneswar, November 12 (PTI) – A tragic incident occurred on Sunday when a brave father lost his life while attempting to rescue his young son from drowning in the Kathajodi river in Cuttack district, Odisha. The deceased has been identified as Saroj Sahu, a resident of Naraj area in Cuttack.

The heart-wrenching incident took place at the Kaibartasahi ghat, where Saroj, who was a father of two sons, made a valiant effort to save his eight-year-old younger son from the treacherous currents of the river. Both father and son had gone to the river for a bath.

According to the police, the situation turned critical when the minor boy accidentally slipped into the strong current of the river. Reacting swiftly, Saroj ventured into the deeper waters in an attempt to rescue his son. While he managed to pull his son to safety, Saroj himself tragically succumbed to the forceful river waters.

Fortunately, a group of local women who were also bathing nearby witnessed the distressing incident and immediately came to the rescue of the young boy. They successfully saved the boy from the clutches of the river’s current. Meanwhile, fishermen who were present at the scene managed to retrieve Saroj’s lifeless body from the river.

Without wasting any time, Saroj was rushed to the prestigious SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. However, despite the best efforts of the medical staff, Saroj could not be revived, and the doctors had to declare him dead.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by natural water bodies, especially during the monsoon season when the water currents are strong and unpredictable. Authorities and local communities should work together to raise awareness about water safety and ensure the presence of trained lifeguards in such areas.