Devotee Succumbs During Velliangiri Hills Trek, Fifth Fatality This Year
A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday as a 35-year-old devotee lost his life while climbing the Velliangiri Hills in Coimbatore, bringing the death toll for this year to five. The deceased has been identified as M Saravanan, a resident of Parangimalai in Kancheepuram district.
Details of the Fatal Trek
Saravanan, who worked as a cab driver, arrived from Chennai with friends early on Saturday morning to embark on the challenging ascent of the seven hills. During the trek, he experienced stomach discomfort and briefly stepped away near the bushes along the route to relieve himself. After rejoining the group, his condition worsened, and he collapsed on the second hill.
Forest department officials promptly deployed dolly workers to transport him down to the foothill. Upon arrival, government doctors on duty declared him dead. Sources indicate that Saravanan might have suffered a cardiac arrest, although the exact cause of death will be confirmed following a postmortem examination. His body has been sent to Coimbatore Medical College Hospital for the procedure.
Recent Incidents and Safety Measures
This incident follows the death of a 21-year-old college student who died while trekking on the hills just the night before, highlighting ongoing safety concerns. The area is equipped with four medical camps to assist trekkers. One camp is operated by the Isha Yoga Centre on the fourth hill, while the other three are managed by the health department—two at the foothill and one on the first hill.
Author Information: Tysion Prabhu, a senior correspondent with The Times of India in Coimbatore, covers crime trends, defence, and railways. He holds a master’s degree in journalism from PSG College of Arts and Science and also writes on sports, with a background as a professional cricket player.
