New Delhi, July 25, 2023: In a devastating incident near the Arasinagundi waterfall in Karnataka’s Udupi district, a young man, identified as Sharath Kumar, 23, hailing from Bhadravathi, Shivamogga district, got swept away while recording an Instagram video.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday evening, leaving the youth feared dead. Rescue operations are underway to locate him and provide closure to his family.
Eyewitnesses recounted the heart-wrenching scene as Kumar stood on a rock near the waterfall’s edge when an unexpected slip caused him to be engulfed by the forceful water currents.
Adding to the woes, heavy rainfall triggered landslides, leading to waterlogging in various regions of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. At the Kukke Subrahmanya temple, the situation turned critical as the Kumaradhara River crossed the danger mark, submerging the bathing ghat. In light of the perilous weather conditions, authorities have advised devotees against visiting the shrine for their safety.
In another worrisome incident, a landslide near Karvalu, Udupi district, posed a threat to a high-tension electricity tower, disrupting power supply in the affected areas. Numerous electric poles collapsed, compounding the situation. Furthermore, the Manjeshwar-Subrahmanya state highway faced severe flooding, leading to traffic disruptions.
As the river water levels rose alarmingly in low-lying areas, district authorities took swift action to relocate many families to safer grounds, ensuring their well-being during this trying time.
The entire region is grappling with the aftermath of these natural calamities, highlighting the importance of being cautious near water bodies and staying informed about weather updates. As the rescue operation continues, the community comes together in support of Kumar’s family, praying for a miracle amidst the prevailing challenges.
