Keonjhar/Angul , Odisha : After a long 30-hour search, the missing youth Lipun Kumar Behera has still not been found. The fire brigades from Banspal in Keonjhar district and Pallahada in Angul district conducted continuous searches, but his whereabouts remain unknown.
The incident occurred yesterday when three friends went to Nagira Garjan Khal waterfall, located along the Keonjhar-Angul border, to take a bath. During the swim, Lipun Kumar Behera from Balraai village in Banspal block went missing in the water. A video of the incident showing him struggling has now gone viral on social media.
Two friends from Balraai village and one from Gopapur village accompanied him to the waterfall. While swimming, Lipun disappeared in the strong currents of the waterfall. Once authorities were alerted, the Banspal fire brigade immediately began search operations, which continued late into the evening. However, the search had to be paused due to darkness.
Today, both the Banspal and Pallahada fire brigades resumed their search but could not locate Lipun Kumar Behera. The waterfall’s deep water and heavy rainfall made the rescue operation extremely challenging. Search efforts were suspended in the afternoon due to unsafe conditions.
Meanwhile, over a hundred people, including family members, gathered near the waterfall to witness and support the search. Local residents and tourists expressed concerns about the absence of safety measures near the site. Authorities have urged people to remain cautious while visiting the waterfall and warned against approaching the dangerous currents.
The missing youth’s family is deeply worried as the search continues. Officials have stated that the operation will resume once conditions improve, and additional resources may be deployed to locate Lipun. The community remains hopeful for his safe recovery.
Also Read : Youth Missing After Drowning at Nageera Waterfall, Keonjhar
