A desperate search operation is underway in Cuttack after a woman tragically jumped into the mighty Mahanadi River from Jobra Barrage on Tuesday afternoon. Despite immediate rescue efforts, the woman remains missing, sending shockwaves through the local community.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred around 2:30 PM when the woman, whose identity hasn't been officially released, climbed the barrage and leaped into the swirling waters below. Bystanders watched in horror as she disappeared beneath the surface of the river.
Emergency Response Springs into Action
Local authorities were immediately alerted, triggering a massive rescue operation. Fire services, police teams, and disaster response units rushed to the scene with boats and specialized equipment to scour the river.
"Our teams have been working tirelessly since we received the distress call," stated a senior police official from the scene. "The current conditions of the Mahanadi are challenging, but we're using all available resources to locate the woman."
Search Efforts Intensify
Rescue teams have been combing the river downstream from Jobra Barrage, focusing on areas where the currents might have carried the victim. Local fishermen familiar with the river's patterns have joined the search, offering their expertise in navigating the Mahanadi's complex flow.
The operation continued through Tuesday evening and resumed at first light on Wednesday, with authorities determined to find the missing woman. Divers have been deployed in strategic locations while riverbanks are being systematically searched.
Community in Shock
The incident has left the local community in Cuttack deeply disturbed. Jobra Barrage, a crucial infrastructure project and popular spot, has witnessed a tragic turn of events that has residents concerned about river safety measures.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking incident and are working to establish the woman's identity. They've appealed to anyone with information about missing family members or additional details about the incident to come forward.
As the search continues, questions about river safety protocols and preventive measures at vulnerable locations like barrages are likely to emerge in the coming days.
