Tragedy / Ganesh Idol Immersion Turns Tragic in Kataka as Youth Missing in Taladanda Canal

Kataka, Sep 21: A tragic incident marred the festive Ganesh immersion in Kataka late Sunday night when a youth went missing after accidentally falling into the Taladanda canal during idol immersion.

The mishap occurred near Baleshwar under Madhupatna police limits around 10:30 PM. According to eyewitnesses, Ranjit Natiya of Tinigharia area had joined the Ganesh immersion procession.

As the idol was being lowered from the bridge into the canal amidst heavy crowding and loud celebrations, Ranjit suddenly slipped and fell into the water along with the idol.

Also read: Ganesh Idol Immersions Claim 11 Lives in Odisha

The festive atmosphere, filled with music, dancing, and DJ beats, turned chaotic as panic spread among the crowd. Fire services personnel from Chauliaganj rushed to the spot and immediately began search operations in the canal.

However, despite hours of effort, no trace of the youth has been found so far. Search operations are still underway.

The incident has cast a pall of gloom over the Tinigharia locality, where Ranjit’s family and neighbours are in shock. The family members, devastated by the sudden disappearance, anxiously await news of his recovery.

Ganesh Puja celebrations had been in full swing across Kataka for the past several days, with devotees participating in rituals, cultural programmes, and feasts.

The immersion procession, which usually marks the joyous conclusion of the festival, has now left the community shaken. Authorities have assured that intensive search efforts will continue until the missing youth is found.