Tragedy strikes in Odisha rivers: 3 dead in Ganjam, youth missing in Mahanadi

In a series of tragic river accidents across Odisha, at least three persons lost their lives, while a child is battling for survival in Ganjam district, and a youth went missing in a separate incident in Cuttack’s Athgarh area.

According to reports, the Ganjam tragedy occurred at Kalingadala village under Digapahandi block on Tuesday. The victims, identified as Usha Behera of Kalingadala, her daughter Anusaya Behera, granddaughter, and grandchild, were returning home after offering prayers at the Rataneshwari Temple. While attempting to cross the Bahuda river, the group was suddenly swept away by the strong river currents.

Alert villagers, upon witnessing the mishap, immediately jumped into action and managed to rescue all four individuals. They were rushed to a nearby medical facility, where doctors declared three of them dead, while the child remains in critical condition under treatment.

Also Read: Two minor kanwariya sisters drown in Subarnarekha river in Odisha’s Balasore

In another unfortunate incident, a youth went missing while bathing in the Mahanadi river at Athgarh in Cuttack district. The missing person has been identified as Anish Ojha, son of Akshay Ojha of Kaipudia village.

As per eyewitness accounts, Anish had gone to bathe in the river along with friends when he was swept away by the current. On receiving the information, Athgarh Fire Service personnel reached the spot and launched a search and rescue operation, which is currently underway.

These tragic incidents have once again highlighted the dangers of crossing or bathing in swollen rivers, especially during the post-monsoon season.