Tamil Nadu rain: Flash flood at Old Courtallam falls in Tenkasi kills teenager, video of fierce flow of water goes viral with 1 crore views
tragic incident unfolded at the Old Courtallam Falls in Tenkasi district of Tamil Nadu as a 17-year-old boy lost his life to the fierce currents of a flash flood on Friday afternoon.
The victim, identified as Ashwin, a Class XI student hailing from NGO Colony in Palayamkottai, was among the individuals bathing at the falls around 2:30 pm when a sudden downpour in the Western Ghats triggered a flash flood. Chaos ensued as tourists cried out for assistance, prompting both police personnel and nearby shopkeepers to rush to their aid.
Amidst the commotion, Ashwin was swept away by the surging waters, marking a tragic turn of events. Responding swiftly, District Collector A K Kamal Kishore and Superintendent of Police T P Suresh Kumar, alongside Fire and Rescue Services personnel, initiated a rescue operation.
After an exhaustive search effort, Ashwin's body was discovered trapped amidst rocks in a stream branching from the falls, approximately a kilometer away from the bathing area.
Rains continue to lash parts of Tamil Nadu
Expressing condolences, the district collector acknowledged the collaborative effort that led to the recovery of Ashwin's body. He highlighted prior warnings issued to the public through media channels regarding the forecasted heavy rainfall in Tenkasi district and emphasized the necessity for caution. Additionally, all relevant departments were placed on high alert status.
In light of the incident, as a preventive measure, authorities have imposed a ban on bathing
