Overview
- Police identified the missing 22-year-old as Sagar Kundu of Berhampur, who was carried off on Aug. 23 while filming at the 175-metre falls.
- Multi-agency teams from ODRAF, the fire service and local police have found no trace after recovering his bag with batteries and equipment.
- A viral video cited by investigators shows Kundu stepping into the stream despite warnings before a rapid rise in flow swept him away.
- Rescuers report rugged, rocky terrain and persistent monsoon rain are limiting access and visibility in the gorge.
- Authorities have asked Machkund dam operators to close gates to lower water levels for a more effective search, as safety concerns at the tourist site intensify after a similar June incident.