A tragic accident was reported from Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh, where two tourists from Kerala drowned in the frozen waters of Sela Lake on Friday. While the body of one tourist was recovered, search operations are continuing to trace the other.
Rescue attempt turns fatal
Superintendent of Police DW Thongon said the deceased was identified as Dinu (26), while Mahadev (24) remains missing. Both were part of a seven-member tourist group that had travelled to Tawang via Guwahati.
According to preliminary information, the incident occurred in the afternoon when one member of the group accidentally slipped into the frozen lake. Dinu and Mahadev entered the icy water in an attempt to rescue him. While the third tourist managed to come out safely, the two were swept under the freezing water.
Joint rescue operation launched
The district administration received information about the incident around 3 pm, following which a joint rescue operation was launched involving district police, central armed forces and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
Despite harsh weather conditions and poor visibility, rescue teams managed to recover Dinu’s body. However, the search for Mahadev had to be suspended due to darkness and extreme cold. Officials said the operation would resume on Saturday morning.
The recovered body has been kept at the Jang Community Health Centre, where a post-mortem examination will be conducted.
Authorities reiterate safety warnings
Situated at an altitude of over 13,000 feet, Sela Lake is a major tourist attraction but poses serious risks during winter. Police said warning signboards have been installed at the lake and other tourist spots, advising visitors not to walk on frozen water bodies.
The district administration had also issued an advisory in December cautioning tourists that frozen lakes are unsafe, as the ice cover may be fragile and unable to support human weight.