24-8-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) An extensive search and rescue operation is underway in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, where a 48-year-old Indian national vanished into an eight-metre deep sinkhole that suddenly appeared on Jalan Masjid India. More than 13 hours after the incident, rescuers are still battling challenging conditions in their efforts to locate the woman.
Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Commissioner Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa revealed that strong underground water currents are hampering the search efforts. “We’ve conducted a thorough search of the immediate area without success,” he stated. “Now, we’re proceeding in stages, collaborating with Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) and utilising their sewer plans to guide our efforts.”
The incident occurred when a section of pavement near Malayan Mansion suddenly collapsed, engulfing the victim who was walking with her family. Closed-circuit television footage captured the horrifying moment when the ground gave way beneath her feet.
Commissioner Rusdi emphasised the need for caution in the rescue operation. “We must proceed carefully to avoid triggering any flooding,” he explained. “We’re following the advice of the Fire and Rescue Department and IWK to ensure a methodical approach.”
The search is now focusing on a chamber with strong currents where the victim is believed to be trapped. Various agencies, including the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Fire and Rescue Department, and IWK, are coordinating their efforts at the scene.
In a poignant twist, it was revealed that the victim, a tourist who had been in Malaysia for two months, was due to return to India the following day. Commissioner Rusdi urged the press to respect the privacy of the victim’s family during this distressing time.
The authorities have pledged to assist the family with timely updates and are liaising with the Indian High Commission regarding visa extensions for the victim’s relatives.
Mohd Riduan Akhbar, the operations commander, confirmed that specialised units, including the Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Team of Malaysia (STORM) and a K9 unit, have been deployed to the site. A DBKL crane is also being utilised in the search, as rescuers believe a concrete stool that fell into the sinkhole may have landed on the victim.
