Two Students Rescued After Balangir Waterfall Incident
Two students were rescued by Bongomunda Fire Service after falling into Gumpha Dam waterfall in Balangir district.
Two college students were rescued by the Bongomunda Fire Service after falling unconscious near the Gumpha Dam waterfall in Balangir district on July 15, 2026. Debashish Pradhan of Komna and Kahna Dandasena of Timanpur, both students at Khariar College in Nuapada district, slipped into the gorge while bathing at the scenic waterfall near Chhatranga village under Jhurabandh panchayat. The incident occurred at the foothills of Chhatradandi forest, a location known for its natural beauty.
The other two friends from the group immediately contacted the Bongomunda Fire Service, prompting a rescue operation. Firefighters led by OIC Ranjit Kereketta trekked 3 km uphill through dense forest to reach the unconscious victims, using stretchers to carry them to safety. The operation, involving firefighters Dileshwar Sethia, Ashok Kumar Nayak, Dushmant Majhi, Brusabh Sahu, and Rajkumar Majhi, continued into the night. Both students were transported to Khariar Hospital in Nuapada district for medical treatment.
Local residents noted that the waterfall attracts many visitors who often take selfies near the edge, leading to frequent accidents. They have called on authorities to install warning signs and safety barriers to prevent similar incidents. The area is part of the Chhatradandi forest.
Local residents noted that the waterfall attracts many visitors who often take selfies near the edge, leading to frequent accidents. They have called on authorities to install warning signs and safety barriers to prevent similar incidents. The rescue highlights ongoing challenges in managing tourist safety at remote natural landmarks.
How many students were rescued from the Balangir waterfall?
Two students, Debashish Pradhan and Kahna Dandasena, were rescued.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident occurred near the Gumpha Dam waterfall in Chhatranga village, Balangir district.
Who conducted the rescue operation?
The Bongomunda Fire Service led the rescue operation.
What was the distance the students fell?
The students fell approximately 600 metres into the gorge.
What safety concerns were raised by locals?
Locals urged authorities to install warning signs and safety barriers due to frequent accidents at the site.
Bibhuti Bhusan Sahu
District Correspondent, Nuapada
Bibhuti Bhusan Sahu reports on Nuapada district's border-area development, migration trends, and local governance for the Mirror.
View all articles by Bibhuti →
Loading…