Man from Odisha Survives Flood for 24 Hours, Saved by Helicopter Rescue Operation
In the heart of Odisha's Malkangiri district, a dramatic rescue operation was successfully conducted on Wednesday evening. The victim, Irma Sodi, a resident of Kotamateru village, found himself trapped on a rock in the Saberi River for nearly 24 hours.
The ordeal began on Monday afternoon when Irma, who was returning from Sukma in Chhattisgarh, found himself in trouble as his country-made boat capsized due to strong currents near Matapaka panchayat under Malkangiri police limits.
With no food or water, Irma clung to a tree and then climbed onto a mid-river rock to survive. Locals spotted him the next morning and alerted the authorities. However, the turbulent flow of the river made it dangerous for boats to approach, and a helicopter was called in for the rescue.
The Odisha Fire Services team led the operation, working in collaboration with a joint team that included personnel from the Fire Services of Odisha and Chhattisgarh, CRPF, and local police. The rescue operation was a high-risk mission, given the treacherous conditions of the river.
The helicopter, the only means to reach Irma Sodi, hovered over the river, waiting for the right moment to lift him to safety. After a tense wait, the helicopter eventually managed to lift Irma to safety, marking the end of his harrowing ordeal.
Post-rescue, Irma was rushed to a hospital in Chhattisgarh, where the doctors confirmed that his condition is stable. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk in even the most seemingly ordinary situations.
The rescue operation, which took place in the Saberi River, has been hailed as a testament to the bravery and quick thinking of the rescue teams involved. It is a story of hope and resilience, reminding us of the power of human spirit in the face of adversity.
