Karnataka: A Kerala-origin techie, Sharanya, who went missing during a trek in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, has been safely rescued after a large-scale, coordinated search operation led by local authorities and supported by the intervention of Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.
Sharanya had lost her way while trekking in the Tadiyandamol forest area in Coorg and remained stranded for several days before being located on Sunday evening.
Mother’s plea triggers rapid response
The rescue effort gained momentum after Sharanya’s mother approached Shivakumar during a political rally in Kerala and sought urgent help in tracing her daughter.
Responding immediately, Shivakumar made calls from the stage to officials in Karnataka, including police and forest authorities, directing them to intensify the search operation. He also coordinated with local tribal leaders to expand ground-level efforts.
Speaking later at a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Shivakumar said he acted without delay upon learning about the situation.
“I immediately contacted our state officials and tribal leaders right from the stage,” he said, adding that continuous follow-ups were made to ensure the search remained active.
Massive search operation in dense forest
The rescue mission involved around 170 personnel, including police, forest department staff and members of tribal communities familiar with the terrain.
The Tadiyandamol region, known for its dense forests and challenging trekking routes, made the operation particularly complex. Teams had to navigate difficult conditions, including heavy rainfall and limited visibility.
The involvement of local tribal communities proved crucial, given their knowledge of the forest landscape and ability to track movement in such terrain.
Survival against the odds
Officials said Sharanya survived extreme conditions while stranded in the forest. She reportedly spent an entire day in heavy rain without food and managed to sustain herself on water.
Shivakumar praised her resilience and composure during the ordeal, noting that her courage played a key role in her survival until rescue teams reached her.
Coordination praised by officials
The Deputy Chief Minister commended the efforts of all agencies involved, highlighting the importance of coordination between different departments and local communities.
He also acknowledged the role of swift administrative action in expediting the rescue, ensuring that resources were mobilised quickly after the initial alert.
Conclusion
Sharanya’s rescue underscores the effectiveness of timely intervention and coordinated action in emergency situations. The operation, involving multiple agencies and local expertise, not only ensured her safe return but also highlighted the importance of preparedness and rapid response in challenging terrains like Kodagu’s forests.