Kerala Trekker Survives 72-Hour Ordeal on Karnataka's Highest Peak
In a dramatic rescue operation that spanned more than three days, 36-year-old GS Sharanya from Kerala was successfully traced and rescued from the challenging terrain of Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Kodagu district. The IT professional from Kochi, who had embarked on a solo trekking adventure, was found by members of the local tribal community on Sunday afternoon, ending an intense search effort involving multiple agencies.
The Disappearance and Survival
Sharanya's ordeal began on Thursday when she became separated from a group of fifteen fellow trekkers during their descent from Tadiandamol. While the rest of the group returned safely to base camp that evening, Sharanya found herself alone in the rugged landscape. Recognizing the danger of attempting to navigate the difficult terrain without assistance, she made the critical decision to seek shelter in an abandoned shack located near the peak's summit.
For the next two days, Sharanya remained in the same area, battling extreme weather conditions, hunger, and the constant uncertainty of being in a region known to be inhabited by wild animals. Her situation was further complicated by poor mobile network coverage and a completely drained cellphone battery, leaving her completely cut off from communication with rescue teams.
Massive Multi-Agency Search Operation
Authorities launched search operations on Thursday evening after Sharanya failed to return with her trekking group. The initial efforts were hampered by darkness and had to be suspended within hours. On Friday, the operation expanded significantly to include forest department personnel, local police, community volunteers, and members of the indigenous Kudiya tribal community who possess intimate knowledge of the mountainous terrain.
The search teams faced considerable challenges due to the difficult landscape and changing weather conditions. By Saturday, the operation had intensified with the inclusion of specialized units, including the Anti-Naxal Force whose members are trained to operate in rugged environments. Despite these efforts, no breakthrough was achieved during the first two days of searching.
High-Level Intervention and Technological Assistance
The search received significant attention from Karnataka's highest leadership on Sunday. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah personally directed officials to deploy additional resources to locate the missing trekker and ensure her safe return. Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre similarly instructed forest department personnel to scale up their efforts.
Police and government sources revealed that nine coordinated teams participated in the operation, with forest officials bringing sophisticated thermal drone cameras to enhance the search capabilities. This technological assistance proved crucial in scanning the difficult terrain for any signs of the missing woman.
Successful Rescue and Recovery
The breakthrough finally came around 4 PM on Sunday when members of the local tribal community located Sharanya in the Pattighat reserve range area. Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna, who also serves as legal adviser to the Chief Minister, rushed to Tadiandamol to personally interact with the rescued trekker following her discovery.
Kodagu Superintendent of Police Bindu Mani confirmed that Sharanya, originally from Nadapuram in Kozhikode district of Kerala, was found to be healthy and unharmed despite her prolonged ordeal. She was initially taken to Virajpet hospital for medical evaluation before being transported to a homestay in Kakkabe, approximately one hour's drive from Madikeri.
The successful conclusion of this operation highlights the importance of coordinated efforts between multiple agencies and local communities in wilderness rescue situations. Sharanya's decision to remain in a relatively safe location rather than attempting a dangerous descent likely contributed to her survival and eventual rescue.
