UBKV Student of Gorubathan Dies While Running Marathon in Coochbehar

KalimNews, 12 January 2025, Coochbehar:   In a tragic incident, Riyaz Rai, a 20-year-old first-year B.Sc. student of Uttar Banga Krishi Vidyalaya (UBKV) in Pundibari, Coochbehar, passed away while participating in an 8.5 km marathon organized by the university. The event was held today as part of Vivek Utsav, a statewide celebration. Riyaz, a resident of Gorubathan in the North Zone, collapsed near the finish line of the marathon, which started from Patlakhawa and concluded at the university campus.

Witnesses reported that Riyaz was seen massaging his chest before collapsing. He was rushed to Pundibari Hospital and later referred to Coochbehar MJN Medical College and Hospital. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his condition while en route to the medical facility.

This annual marathon, traditionally organized by the university, had included all first-year students as participants. Riyaz, participating in such a race for the first time, tragically could not complete it.

Coochbehar police have registered an unnatural death case and initiated an investigation into the matter. Riyaz’s family has visited the university to gather details about the incident and will receive his body after the post-mortem examination is completed.

Experts caution that strenuous physical activities like marathons should not be attempted without proper training and comprehensive medical check-ups. “It is crucial for individuals to ensure they are in good physical health before undertaking such demanding events,” emphasized a marathon specialist.

The untimely demise of Riyaz has left the university community in mourning. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of health and safety measures during physically challenging activities.