Youth Missing at Thipakhol Waterfall in Nuapada During Bolbam Journey
Basant Kumar, 25, from Chhattisgarh’s Gariabandh district, went missing at Thipakhol waterfall in Nuapada on Sunday evening while on a Bolbam journey.
A 25‑year‑old youth identified as Basant Kumar, a native of the Amalipada area in Chhattisgarh’s Gariabandh district, went missing on Sunday evening at the popular Thipakhol Pathabak tourist spot under Sinapali block in Nuapada district, Odisha. Basant Kumar had arrived at the site with his friends as part of a Bolbam journey. He was last seen around 5:30 pm. When he failed to return, his companions and others present at the location launched an extensive search of the surrounding area. After failing to locate him, they informed the Sinapali Fire Service department.
What search efforts are underway?
The Sinapali Fire Service team reached the spot promptly after being alerted and began combing operations in and around the waterfall. Search efforts by fire personnel are continuing in the waterfall area and the nearby terrain. As of the time the report was filed, no trace of Basant Kumar has been found. The firefighters have been examining the vicinity, looking for any sign of the missing youth. The operation remains active, with personnel continuing to search the waterfall and surrounding terrain in hopes of locating Basant Kumar. No trace has been discovered so far.
What concerns has the incident raised?
The incident has left Basant Kumar’s family and friends deeply worried. It has once again raised serious questions about tourist safety, the adequacy of cautionary signage, and the availability of proper rescue mechanisms at scenic yet potentially hazardous sites such as Thipakhol waterfall. Relatives and acquaintances have expressed anxiety over the lack of immediate results from the search. Local observers have pointed out that the absence of clear warning signs and limited rescue infrastructure at such locations increases risk for visitors. Authorities have been urged to review safety measures at Thipakhol and similar sites. Further details are awaited as the search operation remains underway.
Yajati K. Rout is a dynamic journalist at Pragativadi, known for delivering nuanced and impactful storytelling that spans Odisha’s societal fabric to global sports arenas. His reporting navigates seamlessly between grassroots realities, high-profile political developments, and the pulse of international tennis and cricket. With a flair for SEO-driven storytelling and a deep cultural lens, Yajati crafts content that resonates with a diverse readership—bridging insight with accessibility.
Who is the missing youth?
Basant Kumar, a 25-year-old from Amalipada in Chhattisgarh’s Gariabandh district.
Where did he go missing?
At the Thipakhol Pathabak tourist spot (Thipakhol waterfall) under Sinapali block in Nuapada district, Odisha.
When was he last seen?
Around 5:30 pm on Sunday, August 15, 2026.
What was he doing at the site?
He was on a Bolbam journey with friends.
What actions have been taken after his disappearance?
His companions searched the area and informed the Sinapali Fire Service, which is combing the waterfall and surrounding terrain; as of the report, no trace has been found.
What concerns have been raised by the incident?
It has raised questions about tourist safety, the adequacy of cautionary signage, and rescue mechanisms at scenic yet hazardous sites like Thipakhol waterfall.
Which authorities are involved in the search?
The Sinapali Fire Service department is conducting the search operation.
Is there any update on the search operation?
Search efforts are continuing, but no trace of Basant Kumar has been found as of the report time.
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 →
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