Srinagar, Jan 11: Nearly two years after the tragic boat capsize at Gandbal in Srinagar’s Soiteng area that claimed eight lives, a fresh discovery along the banks of the Jhelum River has rekindled painful memories and renewed hope among locals still searching for closure.

Residents collecting sand along the riverbank on Sunday noticed what appeared to be human remains partially emerging from the sand. Locals said the object resembled a human foot and appeared old and decomposed, prompting them to immediately inform the authorities.
Police teams rushed to the spot soon after receiving the information and cordoned off the area for examination. Officials said the origin of the suspected remains is yet to be confirmed and further verification will be carried out as per standard procedures.
The discovery has triggered speculation in the area that the remains could belong to Showkat Ahmad Sheikh, a 40 year old mason who went missing during the April 16, 2024 boat tragedy. Sheikh’s body was never recovered despite extensive search operations at the time.
The boat had capsized in the Jhelum at Gandbal while ferrying passengers, including schoolchildren. Fifteen people were onboard when the mishap occurred. Six passengers were rescued, eight bodies were later retrieved, while Sheikh remained untraceable.
Following the tragedy, large-scale rescue and search operations were carried out by the State Disaster Response Force, National Disaster Response Force and marine commandos, but the missing man was never found.
Officials said forensic examination and further investigation will determine the nature and identity of the remains. Till confirmation, authorities have urged restraint and cautioned against speculation.