A third-year BTech student of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati lost her life, while another student sustained injuries after the two accidentally fell into the Brahmaputra River near the institute on Saturday. According to police sources, the students had gone outside the IIT Guwahati campus to spend some time by the riverside when they slipped and fell into the water. The incident triggered an immediate rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

Officials said the accident was reported promptly, following which NDRF divers were deployed to search the river. One of the students was rescued within about 10 minutes of entering the water and was taken to safety with injuries. However, rescue teams continued searching for the second student, whose body was recovered nearly three hours later after an extensive operation in the river.

Preliminary information gathered by authorities indicates that the incident was accidental. Police have launched a formal investigation to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the tragedy. Officials are examining all available evidence and statements as part of the inquiry, though there has been no indication of foul play at this stage.

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In a statement, IIT Guwahati expressed profound grief over the death of the student, who was pursuing her third year of BTech in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE). The institute described the incident as an irreparable loss to the campus community and conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the student's family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.

The institute also assured that it stands in solidarity with the bereaved family and will extend all possible support. IIT Guwahati said it is closely coordinating with the authorities as the investigation continues and reaffirmed its commitment to assisting the affected students and their families in every possible manner. The administration has not disclosed the identities of the students involved.

The incident has once again highlighted the dangers associated with visiting riverbanks, particularly during the monsoon season when water levels and currents in the Brahmaputra can become unpredictable. Authorities have urged people to exercise caution while visiting such areas and to avoid venturing too close to the river's edge. Police said the investigation is ongoing, and further details will be shared as more information becomes available.

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