PALAKKAD: A youth trapped in the Cheradu hill in Malampuzha could not be rescued even after 24 hours. Though the youth, who fell into the rock and hurt his leg, can be seen, it is very difficult to reach there, said district collector Mrunmai Joshi.

Have sought the help of air force’ helicopter to rescue the youth, added the collector. The first attempt of giving rope to rescue him failed. Are planning to seek the help of mountaineers. The mountaineers from Kozhikode have been asked to reach immediately.

We should try to give food, water and first aid to the youth before rescuing him, said MLA Shafi Parambil. Babu had arrived at the Kurumbachi hill, a steep part of the Cheradu hill, along with two children, by around Monday noon. The children retreated after climbing half way. However, Babu continued to climb the hill. On his way, he slipped and fell in between a bed of rocks.

He had injured his leg in the fall and has severe muscle pain because of which he could not be rescued. Babu himself had informed the fire force and the people below. The fire force had found the place as per the information given by the children, but had to return, as it got dark.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) who reached the place by night, were also unable to rescue Babu from the rugged area. The police and locals, along with Babu’s family are waiting for him at the foot of the hills.

At around midnight, rescue operations were carried out under the leadership of Jafar, the district leader of a Jamaat-e-Islami led Ideal relief wing. The police lit lanterns to guide those who went up the hill. The rescue team has been trying to provide food to Babu through helicopters. The chances of airlifting are also being considered.

Babu along with four others came for trekking to that area of forest where it is banned. Others tried to rescue him as soon as the accident happened, but it was in vain. Several local representatives have also reached Cheradu hills following the incident. The rescue teams are desperately trying to bring Babu down as soon as possible.