In a dramatic rescue operation, Irma Sodi, a resident of Kotamateru village, was saved after being stranded for nearly 24 hours on a rock in the middle of the Saberi River.
The incident occurred when Irma attempted to cross the river in a traditional boat to reach Telawari village in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh.
While returning, the boat lost balance due to strong currents and capsized. Irma miraculously survived by grabbing onto a tree branch and later climbing onto a rock, where he remained stranded overnight.
Local villagers alerted the fire department early the next morning. Upon learning of the situation, MLA Shri Narsingh Madkami informed the state government and coordinated with Chhattisgarh authorities to arrange a helicopter rescue. Hours later, the helicopter arrived at the scene and successfully airlifted Irma to safety.
The heroic intervention by the MLA has been widely praised by residents of Kotamateru, who expressed their gratitude for saving Irma’s life. MLA representative Nihar Ray was also present during the rescue operation.