Kottiyam: For six-year-old Raman, struggling in the algae-covered waters of Erathu Chira, rescue came in the form of 12-year-old Saidali. Once Raman was pulled to safety, Saidali stayed close, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

The two boys are being hailed as local heroes in Kottiyam. The incident happened one afternoon when Raman, son of Suresh and Ashwahi of Manjakkuzhy House, Parakkulam, and a Class 1 student at Chathannur Government HS, was riding his bicycle near the large pond. Saidali, son of Siyad and Sajeena of Pullankuzhy Canal House and a Class 7 student at Kottiyam CFHS, witnessed the accident and immediately sprang into action.

Erathu Chira is a large water body that stores water for surrounding paddy fields. Raman was on his way to a celebration organised by the Jwala Library and Sports Club, held near the pond. As he entered a nearby road, his bicycle lost control, and he fell into the water.

The loudspeakers blaring for the event drowned out his cries for help. From a distance, Saidali saw him fall and didn’t hesitate. He sprinted to the scene, stretched out along the road, and reached for Raman. Clinging tightly, Raman held on as Saidali pulled him toward safety, shouting for help the entire time.

Raman’s grandfather, Raju, who was sitting on the opposite bank, heard the cries and rushed over. Soon, club members and other locals arrived to assist. Once Raman was brought to safety, he was congratulated for surviving the ordeal, while Saidali received praise for his life-saving act. Although Raman had swallowed some water, he suffered no health issues. His bicycle, which had fallen into the pond, was later recovered.

Locals noted that four people have drowned in the pond so far. While iron fencing has been installed along one side of the water body, residents are now demanding similar fencing along the remaining banks to prevent further accidents. Meanwhile, the club members are scheduled to clear the algae that has covered the pond’s surface today.