An Indian national died after a raft capsized by the Punakha’s Mochu River at around 11:30am yesterday.

When the incident happened, there were six Indians on board the raft, all from Punatshangchhu Hydropower Project Authority II (PHPA II).

According to Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) officials, five men were taken to Punakha hospital for observation. They were discharged the same day.

Sources say that the deceased had failed to regard safety briefing. Water level had also risen due to rain.

Following the incident, the dzongkhag administration of Punakha requested Tourism Council of Bhutan to notify rafting companies to halt rafting activities for the time being.

Currently, there are about four rafting companies operating in the locality.

Punakha Dzongda Karma Drukpa said that even with all safety gears, the activity was risky during monsoon.

The body of the deceased will be handed over to the family members in Thimphu.

Staff Reporter

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