Tragedy Strikes at High-Altitude Sela Lake
A devastating incident unfolded at Sela Lake in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang district. Two tourists from Kerala lost their lives after falling into the freezing waters. The accident occurred when the lake's frozen surface cracked beneath them.
Rescue Operations Retrieve Bodies
Rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover the bodies of the two young men. Authorities identified the victims as Binu Prakas, aged 26, and Madhav M., aged 23. The operation involved multiple agencies working together.
Police, disaster response forces, and military units participated in the challenging rescue mission. They suspended operations at night due to darkness and resumed early the next morning. The difficult high-altitude conditions made their task particularly demanding.
Chain of Events Leading to Tragedy
According to Tawang SP D.W. Thongon, the tragedy began when one tourist ventured onto the frozen lake. The ice cracked, causing him to fall into the icy water. His friends immediately rushed to help him.
The first tourist managed to escape with assistance from others nearby. Unfortunately, the two rescuers who entered the water could not save themselves. They drowned in the freezing lake despite their brave attempts to help their friend.
The group consisted of seven tourists, all hailing from Kerala. They had traveled from Guwahati toward Tawang in a hired vehicle. Their journey took them to the scenic Sela Lake, located at an impressive altitude of over 13,000 feet.
Warnings Ignored
District authorities had previously issued clear warnings about the dangers of frozen lakes. In December, the administration specifically advised tourists against stepping onto icy lake surfaces.
The district administration placed signage around lakes and briefed tour operators about the risks. They emphasized that the ice could not support human weight during winter months. Despite these precautions, the tragic accident still occurred.
The surviving tourist received immediate medical attention at Baisakhi Military Station in Tawang. Police have registered a case of unnatural death as they continue their investigation into the incident.
Tourist Destination with Hidden Dangers
Sela Lake represents one of several high-altitude lakes that attract visitors to Tawang. These picturesque locations draw tourists seeking adventure and natural beauty. However, winter conditions create significant hazards that many visitors underestimate.
The region experiences sub-zero temperatures that freeze lake surfaces. While the ice appears solid, it often lacks the strength to support human weight. This creates dangerous conditions for unwary tourists who venture onto frozen waters.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictable power. It highlights the importance of heeding safety warnings, especially in challenging environments like high-altitude regions.
