A 16-year-old boy went missing in the Kathajodi River in Cuttack district on Friday. Locals suspect he drowned while bathing.
The boy, Shriyanshu Das, lived in Madhuban, Kendrapara. He studied in Class 10 at DAV Public School, CDA-6.
He visited Balighat to bathe in the river. Witnesses saw him enter the water but did not see him return.
Locals alerted Bidanasi Fire Services immediately. Rescue teams reached the spot and launched a search operation.
Officials confirmed the boy remained untraceable till Friday evening. Divers continued searching the river throughout the night.
Police recorded statements from nearby residents. They collected details about the boy’s movements before the incident.
Family members rushed to the site after hearing the news. They waited anxiously as rescue efforts continued.
Authorities deployed additional personnel to assist the search. They used boats and underwater equipment to scan the riverbed.
The incident shocked the local community. Residents demanded better safety measures along riverbanks.
School officials expressed grief over the student’s disappearance. They offered support to the family.
The Kathajodi River has seen similar incidents in the past. Locals urged authorities to install warning signs and barriers.
Officials promised to intensify search efforts. They assured the family of full cooperation and updates.
The search operation remains active. Police and fire services continue working to locate the missing teenager.
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