Overview

• The missing person was identified as Sagar Tudu of Berhampur, who was filming near the falls with friend Abhijit Behera when fast-rising waters overtook them.
• A widely shared video shows Tudu stranded on a rock before powerful currents carry him away as onlookers attempt to help.
• Machakunda police, State Disaster Response Force personnel, and Fire Services teams have launched a search operation, with efforts continuing at the site.
• Reports attribute the rapid rise to a release of about 2,000 cusecs from the Machkund/Machakunda dam following heavy rain in the Lamtaput region.
• Indian Express reports that authorities issued an advance alert downstream before the release, and the recurring incidents at Duduma have renewed calls for stronger safety measures.