Cyclone aftermath / Ganjam landslide: 6 still missing after 7 days, rescue operation continues

Ganjam, Nov 6: Rescue teams continue to carry search and rescue operations at the Gidipabali landslide site along the Ganjam-Kandhamal border in Odisha, even seven days after the devastating incident. Six people remain missing, while seven bodies have been recovered so far from the debris.

The ODRAF team, Fire Services Department and DVF are engaged in the search operation. However, massive boulders and accumulated debris continue to pose major challenges for rescue personnel.

According to the latest information, 13 people are believed to have died in the landslide. While seven bodies have been recovered, search operations are underway to trace the remaining six missing persons.

In a tragic development, the bodies of five members of a family were recovered from the landslide site on Thursday. The deceased were identified as Bhumika Pradhan (27), Bijay Pradhan (25), Bagri Pradhan (14), Aruna Pradhan (7), and Bijayalakshmi Pradhan (6). Their identities were confirmed in the presence of family members.

Earlier, two other bodies had been recovered from the landslide debris.

The rescue operation has gained momentum following an improvement in weather conditions. More than 100 rescue personnel are currently working at the site, while the overall rescue mission involves approximately 200 to 250 personnel. Apart from ODRAF and Fire Services teams, specialised units, including DVF, DVI and SCU personnel, have also been deployed.

Earlier, the railway department's blasting and mining teams assisted in removing massive boulders by carrying out controlled blasting operations.

Also Read: Ganjam landslide: Five more bodies of a family recovered, death toll rises to seven

The presence of huge rocks and heavy debris remains one of the biggest obstacles to the ongoing rescue mission. Rescue personnel are continuing their efforts to clear the affected area and locate the six people who are still missing.

The administration has confirmed that the search operation will continue over the coming days until efforts to trace the missing persons are completed.