Bargarh, Odisha: A group of 17 tourists, including 13 women, two children, and one visually impaired girl, endured a terrifying 14-hour ordeal after getting lost in the dense forests of Gandhamardhan Hill in western Odisha. Their pilgrimage trek turned into a life-threatening experience before they were rescued in the early hours of Thursday, July 24.
The tourists, from Jharsuguda in Odisha and Raigarh in Chhattisgarh, had begun their 18-kilometre trek around 2 p.m. on July 23. The trail connects two sacred sites — the Nrusinghnath and Harishankar temples — and passes through forested, hilly terrain.
As evening fell, the group lost their way in the confusing and narrow trails of the forest. With heavy rain, pitch darkness, and chilling winds at an altitude of 3,000 feet, the situation quickly became dangerous. Despite poor mobile connectivity, the stranded tourists managed to send distress messages and alert local authorities.
A rescue operation was launched immediately. Bargarh Superintendent of Police, Prahlad Sahai Meena, personally monitored the mission. A 30-member team of the District Voluntary Force (DVF), equipped with food, first-aid kits, and rescue gear, was dispatched to the hill.
The rescue team faced numerous challenges. The area is known to be affected by Left Wing Extremists, adding to the risk. Rain and slippery trails forced the rescuers to pause multiple times. By the time they reached the group at 4 a.m. on Thursday, the tourists had moved nearly 500 metres from the previously identified location.
One visually impaired girl in the group had to be carried on a stretcher. The team also had to assist two young children, aged 7 and 8, who were part of the group. Wildlife and thick undergrowth added to the nightlong tension.
“It was a long and difficult night. Our teams had to wait for hours due to the rain and slippery slopes,” said SP Meena.
The tourists were brought down safely, but many were too traumatised to speak with the media. Officials have since urged people not to attempt treks in such remote areas without informing the authorities and ensuring proper guides are present.
This incident highlights the unpredictable dangers of forest trekking and the importance of preparedness, especially in sensitive or extremist-prone zones.
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