Chhattisgarh Tourists Rescued After Losing Way in Odisha’s Gandhamardan Hills

Bargarh/Bolangir: Seventeen tourists from Chhattisgarh were safely rescued after losing their way in the dense forest of Gandhamardan hills in western Odisha during a pilgrimage to the sacred shrines of Narsingh Nath and Harishankar.

The group, part of a larger tour exploring prominent spiritual and scenic destinations in western Odisha, went off-track while trekking through a hilly path and became disoriented in the forested terrain. With visibility hampered by heavy rain and the presence of wildlife, they were unable to find their way back.

Realizing they were lost, the tourists contacted the police control room in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday evening. Responding swiftly, a rescue operation was launched, deploying teams from the District Voluntary Force (DVF), forest department, police, and fire services.

Despite facing intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and reports of wild elephants in the vicinity, the rescue teams pressed on. Using mobile phone location tracking, they eventually pinpointed the group’s location deep within the forest.

“All 17 individuals were rescued without any harm and brought to a safe location,” said a district official. “They are currently under observation and are being provided with medical and logistical support.”

The prompt response and coordination among multiple agencies played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the stranded tourists. Authorities have advised visitors to be cautious while trekking in the region, especially during the monsoon, and to use local guides when venturing into forested areas.

The Gandhamardan hills, known for their biodiversity and religious importance, attract thousands of pilgrims and nature lovers each year. However, incidents like this underscore the need for better trail markings, safety briefings, and emergency support infrastructure.