Rayagada, July 30 (UDN): Two persons, including a minor boy, were rescued after the tractor they were travelling on became trapped in the swollen Nagabali River in Odisha’s Rayagada district following a sudden rise in the water level caused by heavy rainfall.
The incident took place near Intaliguda village under Kolnara block when Prakash Pedanti, a resident of Emaliguda village in the Paikpada area, was returning from his farmland. His minor nephew, Hari Pedanti, was accompanying him as they attempted to cross the river on a tractor.
According to local residents, the Nagabali River swelled rapidly after heavy rain in the upstream areas, catching the duo off guard. The strong current left the tractor stranded in the middle of the river, leaving both occupants marooned for several hours.
Although villagers initially refrained from entering the fast-flowing river due to safety concerns, a group of youths from Intaliguda village later risked their lives to carry out a rescue operation. Battling the strong current, they safely brought both Prakash and the minor boy to the riverbank without any injuries.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the absence of a permanent bridge across the Nagabali River, a crucial crossing used daily by villagers and farmers to access agricultural fields and nearby settlements.
Local social activist Bijay Meleka urged the state government to expedite the construction of a bridge over the river, saying it would provide a safe and reliable link for residents of nearly 10 villages while preventing recurring accidents during the monsoon season.
Residents have repeatedly demanded permanent connectivity across the river, arguing that every monsoon exposes them to significant risks as rising water levels often disrupt movement and endanger lives.
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