Arjun’s lorry found on 71st day from Gangavali River, body in cabin

The search for survivors in the aftermath of the devastating Shirur landslide in Karnataka has taken a distressing turn as renowned underwater rescue expert Eshwar Malpe has decided to withdraw from the ongoing operations, citing a lack of cooperation from the state government. Malpe, hailed as a real-life ‘Aqua Man’, has an impressive track record of over two decades in rescuing people from drowning and recovering bodies from various water bodies across the state. His expertise was sought by the Uttara Kannada district administration on July 28, following the tragic landslide on July 16, which resulted in the disappearance of three individuals, including Arjun, a Malayali driver.

Malpe’s involvement in the rescue mission was highly anticipated, given his exceptional skills and experience in handling such critical situations. The landslide, a grim reminder of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters, had caused significant damage and loss of life. Arjun, along with two others, went missing after the landslide swept away their vehicles, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair.

However, the rescue operations soon encountered challenges beyond the physical difficulties of the terrain and the river. Malpe, in a statement, expressed his disappointment with the state government’s lack of support and coordination. He revealed that he was not invited to any of the meetings held by the district administration regarding the rescue efforts, which he believed was essential for effective planning and execution. Malpe felt that his expertise and insights were not being utilized to their full potential, hindering the overall efficiency of the mission.

The district administration, in response, defended their actions, stating that they had deployed a floating craft dredger to remove silt and debris from the Gangavali River, where the missing individuals were suspected to be trapped. This operation, they believed, was crucial in facilitating the search and recovery process. On the 71st day of the search, a significant breakthrough was made when Arjun’s lorry was discovered in the river, with a body found in the cabin. The metal remains of the vehicle were carefully brought to the shore using the dredger, providing a sense of closure to Arjun’s family, who had been anxiously awaiting any news of their loved one.

The discovery of Arjun’s lorry, while a tragic confirmation of his fate, highlights the dedication and perseverance of the rescue teams. However, the search for the remaining missing individuals continues, and the district administration is leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to locate them. The operation has been a complex and emotionally charged endeavor, with the unpredictable weather and the need to ensure the safety of the divers and rescue personnel adding to the challenges.

The local community, deeply affected by the tragedy, has been rallying together to support the rescue efforts. They have been providing assistance to the authorities and offering solace to the families of the missing individuals. The incident has brought to the forefront the resilience and unity of the people, who have shown unwavering determination in the face of adversity.

As the rescue operations unfold, the story of Eshwar Malpe serves as a testament to the selfless dedication of individuals who risk their lives to save others. His decision to withdraw from the mission highlights the importance of effective communication and collaboration between authorities and experts in such critical situations. It underscores the need for a unified approach, where the expertise of professionals like Malpe is valued and integrated into the decision-making process.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, the community and authorities alike are learning valuable lessons in disaster management and response. The search for the remaining missing individuals continues, and the hope remains that they will be found, bringing an end to the anguish and uncertainty that has gripped their families and the entire community. The story of the Shirur landslide and the subsequent rescue operations will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, reminding us of the power of human resilience and the power of unity in times of crisis.