Rescue Op / Rescue teams race against time as search operation continues at Gidipabali landslide site

Ganjam, Nov 2: Rescue teams are carrying out controlled blasting with extreme caution at the Gidipabali landslide site in Odisha's Ganjam district as efforts continue to trace missing persons trapped under massive debris.

Officials said the operation is aimed at removing smaller rocks and boulders to accelerate the search and rescue process while ensuring the safety of personnel involved.

A large-scale, multi-agency rescue operation is currently underway at the landslide-hit location. Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), Special Operations Group (SoG), Fire Services, Indian Railways, Animal Husbandry Department and local workers have joined hands in a coordinated effort to locate the missing individuals.

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The Special Operations Group has deployed two teams comprising 42 personnel, while ODRAF has stationed a team of 15 rescuers.

The NDRF is leading a significant part of the operation with two teams consisting of 34 personnel, four officers and two sniffer dogs, Rocky and Vicky.

Fire Services has deployed 35 personnel and a sniffer dog named Sultan, while the Railway Department has engaged 35 staff members.

A 12-member team from the Animal Husbandry Department is also assisting in the operation.

Authorities have deployed a range of advanced equipment to strengthen search efforts. NDRF teams are using a life-detector and radar equipment to identify signs of human presence beneath the debris.

Railways has provided two drilling machines, a generator set and 100 blasting gelatin sticks, while ODRAF personnel are operating an additional drilling machine. Fire Services has also deployed a generator set to support field operations.

Controlled blasting is being conducted in phases to clear obstructing rock formations and create safer access routes for rescue teams. Officials stated that every precaution is being taken to avoid triggering further landslides while speeding up the search.

Local labourers are also playing a key role by working alongside rescue teams in clearing debris and facilitating access to difficult areas.