UP ENT surgeon rescued after falling into 800-foot gorge in Kerala’s Vagamon

Idukki: A 28-year-old doctor from Uttar Pradesh was rescued by Kerala Fire and Rescue Services after falling into an approximately 800-foot-deep gorge near the Natural Infinity Pool in Vagamon, Idukki district. The doctor suffered a severe foot fracture and had to be carried to safety after he became unable to walk.

The incident took place on Monday when the doctor, an ENT surgeon working at Sanjay Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences in Uttar Pradesh, was visiting the tourist spot with four friends. The group was descending a steep, rocky trail towards the natural pool, located around 2 km from Vagamon, when he reportedly slipped and fell into the gorge.

Upon receiving information about the accident, a team from the Peermed Fire and Rescue Services arrived at the scene. Rescuers, with great difficulty, descended the mountain to reach the doctor. The team then began the process of carefully bringing him back up. According to a rescue team official, the doctor was unable to walk due to a fractured leg. Therefore, the rescuers had to descend 800 meters themselves, Aaj Tak reported. 

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The rescue team carefully brought the doctor out of the gorge and carried him on foot for approximately 2 km to Vagamon. He was subsequently shifted to a hospital in Erattupetta in a 108 ambulance for further treatment.  

The operation was challenging because of the steep slopes and rocky stretches along the route. Reaching the injured doctor and transporting him to safety required the rescue personnel to negotiate the difficult terrain on foot. 

The incident highlights the potential dangers of trekking along steep and uneven paths at hill stations. Natural attractions such as pools and viewpoints often have difficult access routes, increasing the risk of falls, particularly while descending rocky slopes.

Tourists visiting such locations are advised to remain cautious, avoid risky shortcuts and follow designated paths wherever possible. Appropriate footwear and extra care on steep or slippery terrain can help reduce the risk of accidents.