Continued heavy rain and wind in Shirur are severely hampering rescue efforts in the rising waters of the Gangavali river. The current conditions, with the river’s water level increasing and heavy currents, pose significant challenges for divers, making it nearly impossible to descend.
Despite these obstacles, the presence of Arjun’s missing truck has been confirmed at a depth of 15 feet, situated 20 meters from the shore. This confirmation came after an extensive search utilizing the latest big boom excavator. However, extracting the truck from the river remains a formidable task. Navy personnel, who attempted to approach the site in three boats, were forced to retreat due to the powerful currents.
Local residents describe Gangavali as a river with a depth of 30 feet and perilous undercurrents, making it unsafe for even the most experienced divers. Earlier, Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda and the police had confirmed the discovery of Arjun’s truck beneath the river, with plans to excavate it soon.
Karwar SP announced that the steps to retrieve the truck are progressing, albeit with caution. Authorities had previously found ropes, believed to have been used to tie logs to Arjun’s truck, in the debris. These ropes were untied and loose, and while the truck reportedly carried about 300 logs, none have been found so far.
The rescue operation continues cautiously due to the risk of landslides. The soil displacement caused by powerful machines and persistent heavy rains increases the likelihood of further landslides. As a result, rescue teams are proceeding with utmost care to prevent any additional disasters.
