A search operation is underway in Sundargarh district’s Koel River after a 15-year-old boy went missing on Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred near Rourkela between 12 pm and 1 pm when four school students from a nearby area went to the river to bathe, officials reported.

The group was enjoying the river when strong currents began to pull them in. One of the boys, who remained on the riverbank, quickly raised an alarm, alerting nearby villagers to the unfolding emergency. Responding swiftly, locals managed to rescue two of the boys from the turbulent waters. Tragically, the fourth boy, identified as Sarthak Badaik, was swept away by the powerful currents and could not be saved.

The Rourkela police, along with emergency services, immediately mobilized rescue efforts. Teams from the Fire Service and Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) arrived on the scene, equipped with scuba divers and rubber boats to aid in the search. Despite their dedicated efforts, Sarthak Badaik remained untraced as of late Sunday evening.

Authorities and rescue teams have vowed to continue their efforts to find the missing boy. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the perils of strong river currents. Family members and friends of the boys have gathered near the river, anxiously awaiting updates.

Police officials have advised residents to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution near the river, especially during seasons when currents are strong.