Search intensifies for Saranya; Six teams to hunt in forest areas

BENGALURU: The search is in full swing for Saranya (35) of Nadapuram in Kozhikode, who went missing while trekking in the Thadiyandamol hills of Kodagu in Karnataka. The forest department and the police are searching the forest areas in six teams. A photo has now emerged that verifies the statement of people who were with her that Saranya was seen playing with a dog. This visual was captured on the trekking route. Friends and relatives have demanded that the investigation be made more efficient and that swift action be taken to find Saranya.

The search is presently underway in the forest areas using sniffer dogs and drones. However, the heavy snowfall in the area is hampering the rescue operations. The search team is moving forward with extreme caution as it is an area prone to wild elephants.

Saranya reached Kodagu from Kochi on April 2. Saranya, who stayed at a homestay in Yevakapadi village near Napoklu, started trekking to Thadiyandamol at around 8.15 am after getting permission from the forest department. Saranya was advised to go with another 10-member group due to the threat of wild elephants. It is hinted that the woman, who started the journey with the group, walked alone while trekking and may have taken a different path. When the group returned to the check post at 4 pm, Saranya was found missing.