A tourist lost his life in a suspected lightning strike at Mahendragiri hill in Odisha’s Gajapati district, shocking locals and visitors alike.
The deceased, identified as Binod Jena from Olatpur village under Niali block in Cuttack district, had gone missing during a thunderstorm on Sunday while trekking uphill from Arjuna Cave toward Bhima Temple.
Binod, along with three friends, had travelled to Paralakhemundi and later proceeded to Mahendragiri for sightseeing. When the storm struck, three of them took shelter inside Bhima Temple, while Binod reportedly ran downhill.
After the rain subsided, his friends searched for him but failed. They alerted forest department personnel at a nearby watchtower and resort. A search operation began across the Bhima Temple area, but initial efforts yielded no results.
Garabandha police and forest officials from Ramgiri Range joined the search late into the night. Finally, on Monday morning, Binod’s body was recovered from the route leading to Bhima Temple. Authorities suspect lightning as the cause of death, though further investigation continues.
The tragic incident highlights the risks faced by tourists during sudden thunderstorms in hilly terrains. Mahendragiri, known for its mythological significance and scenic beauty, attracts many visitors, but unpredictable weather often poses dangers.
