Search for Sinkhole Victim in Kuala Lumpur Enters 5th Day
By Subaashinee Kupusamy,
KUALA LUMPUR, 27 August: The search and rescue (SAR) operation for Vijayalaksmi, a 48-year-old Indian national who fell into a sinkhole in Kuala Lumpur, has entered its fifth day. The incident occurred on August 23 on Jalan Masjid India, where Vijayalaksmi was walking to a nearby temple when the ground beneath her suddenly gave way. The sinkhole, approximately eight meters deep, has presented significant challenges for rescue teams, who have been working tirelessly to locate her.
Authorities have maintained a strong presence at the site, with the victim’s son among those anxiously awaiting any news. The rescue operation has drawn considerable media attention, with about 50 journalists reporting on the scene. Despite the extensive efforts, no significant breakthroughs have been reported, leaving the family and community in a state of distress. The rescue teams remain committed, hoping to find a resolution soon, but the operation continues to be hampered by the difficult conditions of the sinkhole as stated in The Star.
While the SAR teams continue their efforts, the operation has encountered significant challenges. Rescue efforts have been further complicated by the presence of toxic and flammable gases, such as hydrogen sulfide and methane, discovered in a 15-meter-high sewage tank at the Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) plant in Pantai Dalam. These gases pose severe risks, forcing SAR personnel to use specialized protective equipment and breathing apparatus.
The SAR teams have been using a rope system to lower personnel into the tank, where they carefully sift through the sludge in search of any clues about the victim. Despite these efforts, no positive results have been found so far. The challenging conditions, including the hazardous gases and unstable environment, have made the rescue operation particularly difficult. The situation remains tense as the victim’s family and rescue teams continue to hope for a breakthrough soon as stated in the Malay Mail.
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