Gujranwala – June 26, 2025: The bodies of two children who drowned in the Upper Chenab Canal were recovered on Wednesday, two days after the tragic incident shocked the local community in Gujranwala. Rescue efforts by Punjab Emergency Services (Rescue 1122) concluded after hours of search operations.
The deceased were identified as 11-year-old Muhammad Abbas and 10-year-old Waleed, both residents of the Ghakkhar Mandi area. The boys had gone missing while swimming in the canal on Monday afternoon.
Rescue Operation Concludes
According to Rescue 1122 officials:
- The bodies were retrieved several kilometers downstream
- Search teams had used divers, boats, and sonar equipment over two days
- The operation was hampered by strong currents and low visibility
“Despite the challenges, our teams worked tirelessly to recover the children. We offer our deepest condolences to the families,” said a Rescue 1122 spokesperson.
Community in Mourning
The drowning has sparked grief in the local community, with residents demanding fencing or protective barriers along the canal to prevent future tragedies.
Eyewitnesses said the boys had ventured into the canal without adult supervision. Locals claim lack of warning signs and safety measures contributed to the accident.
Recurring Canal Incidents Raise Safety Concerns
This incident adds to a growing list of canal drownings in Punjab, especially during summer months when children often swim to beat the heat. Officials have urged parents to:
- Supervise children closely near water bodies
- Educate youth about canal dangers
- Follow provincial advisories against swimming in open canals
The district administration has pledged to investigate the circumstances and consider safety infrastructure improvements near high-risk areas of the Upper Chenab Canal.
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