A massive multi-agency rescue operation entered its fifth tense day in Rishikesh as search teams continued their desperate hunt for a 26-year-old software engineer who fell into the mighty Ganga River from an under-construction bridge.
The Fateful Incident
The tragedy unfolded on Tuesday evening when Prabhakar Raut, a young IT professional working in Noida, was visiting the scenic town of Rishikesh. While walking across the incomplete Bajrang Bridge near the iconic Ram Jhula area, the techie lost his footing and plunged into the swirling waters below.
Round-the-Clock Search Operation
Since the moment of the accident, rescue teams have been working tirelessly against challenging conditions. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has deployed multiple squads equipped with advanced rescue gear, while local police and expert swimmers have joined the massive search effort.
Key challenges facing rescuers:
- Strong river currents and deep water levels
- Poor visibility and changing weather conditions
- Rocky riverbed and unpredictable underwater terrain
- The extensive search area spanning several kilometers
Family's Agonizing Wait
Prabhakar's family members have maintained a vigil near the accident site, hoping for any positive news. The young engineer, originally from Maharashtra, had been enjoying the spiritual atmosphere of Rishikesh when the tragic accident occurred.
Expert Insights on River Safety
Local authorities have emphasized the dangers posed by under-construction infrastructure near water bodies. Safety experts point out that incomplete bridges and restricted areas require proper barricading and warning signs, especially in popular tourist destinations like Rishikesh.
As the operation continues into another day, rescue teams remain hopeful while acknowledging the diminishing chances of survival. The incident has sparked conversations about infrastructure safety and emergency response protocols in hilly regions prone to such accidents.
