AN 11-YEAR-OLD BOY DESCENDED INTO A NARROW WELL TO SAVE A FIVE-YEAR-OLD CHILD

Several rescue attempts failed because the opening was too narrow for an adult to reach him. Then rescuers turned to an 11-year-old boy named Hazrat Omar, whose courage would become central to the operation.

A Child Trapped Deep Underground

Zainullah had been playing with friends in Kandahar province when he fell into the dried-up well. The shaft was only about 30 centimetres wide, making it almost impossible for an adult to descend safely.

Rescuers lowered a camera into the hole to monitor the child’s position and tried different ways to reach him. Other children attempted to descend, but the narrow space made breathing and movement difficult.

Rescuers Turn to 11-Year-Old Hazrat Omar

Hazrat had apparently been involved in a previous well rescue. With his uncle’s consent, he agreed to descend despite the danger.

His first attempt failed when his shoulder and thigh became stuck. He was pulled back to the surface, but the rescuers tried again.

On the second attempt, Hazrat reached Zainullah. Working in the cramped darkness, he helped secure the younger boy’s hands to a rope so the adults above could begin pulling them out.

A Crowd Waits for the Rescue to Succeed

Hundreds of people gathered around the well as the rescue team slowly hauled the ropes upward. Those watching were urged to remain quiet while rescuers coordinated their movements.

Hazrat emerged first, covered in mud, and was greeted with cheers. Moments later, Zainullah was brought to the surface too.

The five-year-old was taken to hospital and discharged the following day. His family described the relief of seeing him alive after fearing the worst.

A Local Rescuer’s Efforts Have Saved Many Lives

The rescue was supported by local rescuer Mirajan Abdullah, who developed a device using a camera and computer monitor to help locate people trapped in deep wells.

By seeing the person underground, rescuers can guide a rope towards the right position. Abdullah told the BBC that he had been involved in 113 rescues over four years, helping save nearly 70 people.

His work highlights how local knowledge and improvised technology can make a difference in communities where specialised rescue resources are limited.

A Dangerous Problem That Needs a Long-Term Solution

Abandoned wells remain a serious hazard in parts of Afghanistan. Some are left uncovered, creating hidden dangers for children playing or walking nearby.

Although Zainullah survived, the rescue also raises questions about prevention. Safely covering or sealing unused wells could help stop similar accidents before they happen.

A Rescue That Brought Hope to a Community

Hazrat’s actions helped bring a frightened five-year-old back to his family. His bravery was celebrated by the people who had gathered around the well, while the successful rescue offered relief to a community that had watched in fear.

The story is also a reminder that children should never have to face such dangers. Preventing falls into abandoned wells and ensuring trained adults can respond quickly are essential to protecting young lives.

Source: BBC News