Bhubaneswar: A recreational outing turned tragic on Friday when two final-year medical students from Burla-based Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) drowned after being swept away by strong currents at Debjharan Waterfall in Odisha’s Sambalpur district.
The deceased were identified as Sandeep Puri (24) and Monica Meena (24). While the victims’ exact states of origin had not been officially confirmed, hospital authorities stated that one hailed from Delhi and the other from Rajasthan.
According to preliminary reports, a group of six students had gone to the popular tourist site in Jujumura block for a day trip. During their time near the waterfall, Sandeep and Monica reportedly slipped under unclear circumstances and were swept away by the forceful stream.
Rescue teams managed to retrieve both students from the water in a critical state. Despite prompt medical attention, they succumbed to their injuries during treatment, sources confirmed.
Senior officials, including the Superintendent and Dean of VIMSAR, rushed to the site and are overseeing further proceedings. Rescue and relief operations were initiated immediately, and an investigation was underway.
In the wake of the incident, local authorities have once again urged tourists to exercise caution at waterfalls and rivers, particularly during the monsoon season, when water levels and currents tend to be unpredictable and dangerous.
