Migrant worker falls from moving train and drowns into Ganga near Farakka Barrage

Sheikh Shafiqul, a 28-year-old migrant laborer from Mathurapur Pathan Para in Malda’s Manikchak area, died after falling from a moving train into the Ganga River near the Farakka Barrage. The incident occurred while he was returning home from Mumbai on the occasion of Bakrid. His body has not been recovered despite ongoing search operations.

Shafiqul had left for Mumbai approximately one and a half months ago to work as a laborer and support his family. His family includes his wife, two minor children, an elderly mother, and a brother. On Thursday, he was traveling by train back to Malda for Eid celebrations when he fell from the train over the barrage area.

The exact circumstances of the fall are unknown. It is unclear whether Shafiqul fell accidentally, jumped, or was pushed from the moving train. The place where he fell is located in Kaliaganj Block Number 3, where the Ganga’s current is very strong, complicating rescue efforts.

Local officials, including the Block Development Officer, and area representatives have been involved in the search operation. District Youth Trinamool Congress president Bishwajit Mandal visited the family and stated, "The water current is very strong where Sheikh Shafiqul fell." Efforts to locate him continue with the involvement of multiple government departments.

The family members were reported to be deeply distressed upon receiving the news. The authorities have assured full support to the family during the search and recovery operation. The investigation into the incident and the search for the young man are ongoing.