Search Continues for Father and Two Sons at Charvak

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — A search operation is continuing at Charvak Reservoir for the bodies of three members of one family — a father and his two sons — who drowned on 2 September. Five rescue units have been deployed, while seven rescue teams are working directly on the water, Uzbekistan’s Emergency Situations Ministry spokesperson Murad Sadykov and rescue unit commander Rustam Buriev said.

The accident occurred while the family was taking a trip on a rented boat. The boat was carrying the driver, a husband and wife, their daughter and two sons.

According to Rustam Buriev, the emergency was reported through the 112 hotline. When the boat stopped so the family could take photographs, one of the sons decided to swim. He was not wearing a life jacket.

At the time, the reservoir was windy and there were waves. During the swim, the young man suffered a leg cramp. His father jumped into the water in an attempt to help him, followed by his second son.

The boat driver also attempted to rescue the three people but was unable to do so. As the rescue unit commander noted, the incident unfolded very quickly.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations began search operations on the day of the incident. Rescuers, divers and specialized equipment were deployed. A headquarters was established to coordinate the response, and the search has continued without interruption.

Five rescue units and seven teams working in the water are currently involved in the operation. On the instructions of the minister, additional rescue units from the Syrdarya and Jizzakh regions have also been brought in.

Representatives of the Ministry of Emergency Situations and other services are taking part in the work of the headquarters. Rescue teams continue to survey the reservoir as part of the organized search operation.

Rustam Buriev urged citizens to follow water safety rules. He recommended avoiding swimming outside specially designated and fenced-off areas. When traveling on boats and jet skis, he said, people must always wear life jackets, while watercraft should be operated by a licensed driver.