Shillong: Two young boys from Nongsohpian village in West Khasi Hills displayed extraordinary bravery after rescuing a toddler who had nearly drowned in a river between Domkohsam and Nongsohpian villages on Monday afternoon.
The boys, identified as 14-year-old Danielborn Nongsiej and 10-year-old Robertjohn Nongsiej, sprang into action after spotting the child floating motionless in the river, which is frequently used by villagers for washing clothes.
The toddler, Elbius Syiemlieh, who is less than two years old, had reportedly fallen into the water unnoticed.
According to the boys, who are cousins, they were returning from a birthday gathering at their aunt’s residence in Syllei-Iawkein when they reached the river and saw the child floating on the surface of the water.
Without fearing the depth of the river, both boys immediately jumped in and managed to pull the child out safely.
Soon after the rescue, the toddler’s mother arrived at the scene and the child was rushed to a doctor in Nongstoin as he had stopped breathing. Fortunately, after receiving treatment, the child regained consciousness and is now said to be recovering well.
Elbius is the son of Aljinius Nongsiej and Albamary Syiemlieh of Domkohsam village.
Speaking about the incident, the child’s mother said she had gone upstream to wash clothes and was unaware that her son had followed her. Family members had earlier taken the child back home, but he reportedly returned to the river unnoticed and accidentally fell into the water.
In recognition of their courage, Nongsohpian village, under the leadership of village headman Sirian Wahlang, organised a brief felicitation programme on Tuesday morning, where the two boys were honoured with traditional shawls.
Village authorities also informed that a special programme will soon be organised to formally honour the heroic act of the two young rescuers.
