Search Intensifies for Indian Tourist Missing in Kuala Lumpur Sinkhole

Kuala Lumpur: Vijaya Lakshmi Gali, a 48-year-old Indian tourist from Andhra Pradesh, has been missing for five days after falling into a sinkhole in Kuala Lumpur. The incident occurred on August 23, and despite extensive search efforts, she remains untraceable.

According to reports, the sinkhole, measuring approximately 8 metres (26 feet) in depth, opened up in the Dang Wangi area of Kuala Lumpur. Witnesses observed the pavement collapsing suddenly beneath Gali while she was walking, causing her to fall into the sinkhole. The sinkhole formed due to a collapse in a section of the pavement, which has since prompted a significant search and rescue operation.

The Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has been actively involved in coordinating the search efforts. In a statement released on August 28, the Commission confirmed that the search operations are ongoing with the use of specialized techniques. These techniques include high-pressure water jets to clear debris, remote cameras, and ground-penetrating radar to map and explore the inaccessible areas of the sinkhole.

The High Commission stated, “The search continues to locate Indian citizen Ms. Vijaya Lakshmi Gali, who fell into a sinkhole in Kuala Lumpur on August 23. The SAR (Search and Rescue) teams are methodically deducing newer probable paths and likely locations of the missing national.” They also emphasized that their efforts are being supported by relevant local agencies and that they remain in close contact with Gali’s family to provide ongoing assistance.

The search has involved flushing parts of the drainage system connected to the sinkhole to identify potential pathways where Gali might have been carried. The use of advanced technology is aimed at overcoming the challenges posed by the depth and complexity of the sinkhole environment.

The Indian High Commission is closely coordinating with Malaysian authorities and search teams to ensure all possible measures are taken. They have assured that the search efforts will continue until Gali is located and brought to safety.

The family of Vijaya Lakshmi Gali has been anxiously waiting for news and has received support from the Indian High Commission. The situation remains tense as authorities and the public await further updates on the search operation.