Tourist rescued after 12-Hour operation from 150-Foot Gorge in Nilgiris

A tourist who fell into a 150-foot-deep gorge at a viewpoint in the Nilgiris district was rescued after a nearly 12-hour-long multi-agency operation, officials said on Friday.

The incident occurred at the Oosimalai Viewpoint near Gudalur in the Nilgiris. The victim, Sivagurunathan from Chengalpet district, reportedly slipped and fell while attempting to take a selfie near the edge.

Forest officials initiated a search after he failed to exit the premises beyond visiting hours. Early rescue efforts by Fire and Rescue Services were suspended due to darkness and the threat posed by wild animals in the dense forest.

Subsequently, Nilgiris MP A. Raja coordinated with Army authorities at the Wellington Cantonment, leading to the deployment of Army personnel. A joint overnight operation involving the Army and the Forest Department continued for nearly 12 hours before the victim was successfully brought to safety at dawn.

Officials said the tourist sustained minor injuries and received medical attention.

The incident has prompted authorities to reiterate safety advisories for visitors at high-risk tourist locations, warning against taking selfies near cliffs, entering restricted zones, or remaining in forest areas beyond designated hours.