A tragic drowning at Sorulukonda Barrage in Malkangiri claimed the life of a 23-year-old youth on Sunday afternoon.
The victim, identified as Anup Dhar of MV-36 village under Korukonda block, died in front of his mother while bathing with family.
Reports said five families from Somnathpur Panchayat, including Anup’s father Rupachand Dhar, visited the barrage for bathing. During the activity, strong water currents swept through the area. Anup’s foot got trapped in a deep crevice between rocks, preventing him from surfacing. Despite desperate efforts by relatives and locals, he drowned before rescue.
Police from Orkel station, led by ASI Ajit Takari, reached the spot after receiving information. They joined family members in a long search operation and eventually recovered Anup’s body from the water. He was rushed to Balimela area hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
Authorities later sent the body to Malkangiri for post-mortem examination before handing it over to the family. The incident drew hundreds of onlookers to the barrage, reflecting the shock and grief in the community.
Residents said the tragedy cast a pall of gloom over MV-36 village and nearby areas. Police assured that safety measures around the barrage will be reviewed to prevent similar incidents.
