27-8-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) The search and rescue (SAR) operation for Vijayalaksmi, a 48-year-old Indian national who fell into an eight-metre-deep sinkhole in Jalan Masjid India, entered its fifth day on Tuesday, 27 August. The incident, which occurred on Friday morning, has gripped the local community and drawn significant attention from both national and international media.
As dawn broke over the Malaysian capital, authorities were observed gathering at the site as early as 8am. The scene was one of intense focus and coordination, with officials engaged in deep discussions and meticulously assigning tasks for the day’s rescue efforts. The persistence of the rescue teams underscores the gravity of the situation and the unwavering commitment to locate the missing woman.
In a poignant development, Vijayalaksmi’s son, identified as 26-year-old Surya, was seen arriving at the search site around 9am. His presence serves as a stark reminder of the human element at the heart of this tragic incident, as he anxiously awaits news of his mother’s fate.
The sinkhole’s appearance has had a visible impact on the usually bustling Jalan Masjid India area. A survey conducted around 9am revealed that most business premises in the vicinity remained closed, a testament to the disruption caused by both the incident and the ongoing rescue operation.
The media presence at the site has been substantial, with nearly 50 journalists and reporters gathering from as early as 8am to cover the unfolding events. This level of attention highlights the public’s keen interest in the rescue efforts and the broader implications of such an incident occurring in a major urban centre.
The incident that led to this extensive search operation occurred on the morning of Friday, 23 August. Vijayalaksmi was reportedly walking to a nearby temple when the ground beneath her feet suddenly gave way, plunging her into an eight-metre-deep hole. The unexpected nature of the collapse has raised questions about urban infrastructure and public safety in the area.
As the search enters its fifth day, concerns are mounting about the chances of finding Vijayalaksmi alive. Rescue teams face significant challenges, including the depth of the sinkhole and potential instability of the surrounding ground. Specialised equipment and expertise have been brought in to aid in the search, but the complex nature of the terrain has made progress slow and difficult.
Local authorities have been working around the clock, employing various techniques and technologies in their efforts to locate the missing woman. These include the use of thermal imaging cameras, specialised listening devices, and carefully coordinated digging operations.
