SDRF Constable Nitesh Khetwal Rescues Drowning Pilgrim in Haridwar

During the annual Kanwar Yatra in Haridwar, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Constable Nitesh Khetwal jumped into the fast‑flowing Ganga River at Kangra Ghat and pulled a 23‑year‑old pilgrim, identified as Manish from Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh, to safety. The quick action averted a likely fatal incident as thousands of devotees bathe and pray along the river.

Following the rescue, SDRF issued a fresh safety warning urging all Kanwar pilgrims to exercise caution while bathing in the Ganga, highlighting the ongoing challenge of managing large crowds on the holy ghats.

The incident underscores both the bravery of the responding security personnel and the risks inherent in the massive religious gathering each monsoon season.