28-Aug-2024, 12:09 PM
A search and rescue operation is currently underway in Kuala Lumpur following a shocking incident where a 48-year-old Indian woman, Vijaya Lakshmi Gali, fell into a deep sinkhole. The incident occurred on August 23, 2024, in the bustling Masjid India neighborhood, a popular area known for its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to significant landmarks.
Incident Overview
Vijaya was reportedly walking with her family when the pavement suddenly collapsed beneath her feet, plunging her into an 8-meter (approximately 26 feet) deep sinkhole. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with many expressing disbelief at how quickly the ground gave way. The area, frequented by shoppers and worshippers, has now turned into a site of concern and urgency.
Rescue Operations
Emergency responders, including the Kuala Lumpur Fire and Rescue Department’s Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Team (STORM), were promptly dispatched to the scene. Rescue teams utilized heavy equipment, such as excavators and ladders, to navigate the challenging conditions of the sinkhole, which is complicated by utility pipes and signs of water flow beneath the surface. The search operation commenced shortly after the incident was reported at 8:22 a.m., with over 15 rescuers working tirelessly to locate Vijaya. However, as the hours passed, hopes of finding her alive began to dwindle. Local police chief Rusdi Mohamad Isa indicated that strong underground water currents in the area could have swept her away, complicating the rescue efforts.
Community Response and Concerns
The incident has raised significant safety concerns among residents and local authorities. It was revealed that the same location had experienced a soil slip last year, which had been hastily repaired. This has led to public outrage and calls for better infrastructure oversight. Critics have pointed out that the authorities need to ensure thorough inspections and upgrades to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Current Status
As of now, the search operation has faced interruptions due to heavy rain, which has hampered visibility and safety for rescuers. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is being employed to assess the soil conditions around the sinkhole, and efforts to break through the manhole cover at the scene are ongoing. The community remains hopeful for Vijaya’s safe recovery, but as time passes without any signs of her, the situation appears increasingly grim. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of urban infrastructure and the urgent need for improved safety measures in rapidly developing areas.
