Surging waters of Tinhiang river near Mawjai village in South West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya washed away at least six persons, including a baby, who were travelling in a jeep.
The incident took place while the jeep was wading through waters to cross the river as the bridge over the river collapsed several months ago.
Police said the incident occurred around 6 am on Tuesday when the occupants of the vehicle were proceeding towards Nongstoiñ, the district headquarters of West Khasi Hills.
“There were eight people, and all of them are from Mawjai village in Warsan Lyngdoh area,” said police.
Two of the passengers, including 40-year-old Marshal Myrthong and 25-year-old Dapborlin Lyngdoh, escaped from the gushing waters as they were able to swim.
A rescue team from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Fire and Emergency Services were pressed into service to conduct the search and rescue operations.
The rescue team has so far retrieved the bodies of Ladianghun L Mawlot, while her two daughters, 16-year-old Balamanbha L Mawlot and 13-year-old Lapynshai L Mawlot are still missing.
Another woman, 24-year-old Ibashisha Lyngdoh, her baby boy Daman Lyngdoh and 45-year-old Ferdinand Myrthong are still missing.