Did a Tragic Incident Claim a Tourist's Life at Sela Lake in Arunachal?

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Did a Tragic Incident Claim a Tourist's Life at Sela Lake in Arunachal?

Synopsis

A tragic incident at Sela Lake in Arunachal Pradesh has left one tourist dead, while rescue operations continue for another missing individual. This unfortunate event underscores the dangers of exploring frozen lakes at high altitudes, urging caution for all visitors. Read on for more details about the rescue efforts and the situation for the other tourists.

Key Takeaways

  • One tourist has died after falling through the ice at Sela Lake.
  • Rescue operations are ongoing for a third missing individual.
  • Two tourists attempted to rescue the submerged victim but also fell in.
  • All other tourists are being cared for at Army camps.
  • Authorities urge caution for all visitors to high-altitude areas.

Itanagar, Jan 17 (NationPress) In a coordinated effort involving the Army, police, and civil administration, two tourists were successfully retrieved from the frozen Sela Lake in Arunachal Pradesh on Friday. Tragically, one of the tourists was discovered deceased, while search efforts continue for a third individual reported missing, as per officials.

Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat informed that an unfortunate incident transpired at Sela Lake in the Tawang district, approximately 13,700 feet above sea level, involving a group of seven tourists.

During their excursion, one tourist ventured towards the center of the frozen lake, where the ice collapsed beneath him, causing him to become submerged. Two others attempted to rescue him, but they too fell into the frigid waters.

Upon receiving the distress signal, an Indian Army rescue unit from the Gajraj Corps was promptly dispatched. Despite facing severe weather conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and the challenges of high-altitude terrain, Army divers, alongside police and civil authorities, executed rapid rescue operations, successfully retrieving two individuals from the icy lake.

“One person was revived after receiving immediate medical care, while the other was found deceased. Search operations for the third missing tourist are ongoing,” stated Lt Col Rawat.

All other tourists have been safely housed at Army facilities nearby, receiving essential care and support.

“The Indian Army reaffirms its dedication to delivering prompt humanitarian aid and urges all visitors to exercise extreme caution in accordance with civil administration guidelines,” the Army emphasized in a statement.

A police representative in Itanagar noted that the tourists had traveled from Kerala to explore the tourism hotspot of Sela Lake in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Point of View

This incident reflects the need for heightened safety measures for tourists in extreme conditions. The responsibility lies with both visitors and authorities to ensure that safety protocols are established and adhered to, particularly in high-risk environments such as frozen lakes.
NationPress
16/01/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened at Sela Lake in Arunachal Pradesh?
A group of tourists encountered a tragic accident where one individual fell through the ice and drowned, while two others attempted a rescue but also fell into the water. The Army and local authorities are involved in the ongoing search operations.
What are the current conditions for the remaining tourists?
The remaining tourists have been safely accommodated at nearby Army camps, where they are receiving necessary care and assistance.
What precautions should tourists take when visiting frozen lakes?
Tourists should exercise extreme caution, follow local guidelines, and avoid venturing onto frozen surfaces unless they are certain of their safety.
Nation Press