RAJKOT: The body of a West Bengal engineer, missing since April 6, was recovered from the Little Rann of Kutch on Thursday evening, capping an extensive search operation involving multiple central agencies, local police, and the Border Security Force (BSF).
Arnab Pal, an engineer employed with a private firm engaged in renewable energy infrastructure projects, was found near Mauvana village, close to the desert terrain. The site is located some distance from Bela village, the point from where Pal and two others entered the restricted area with BSF authorisation last Sunday.
"Arnab Pal's body was discovered between 6pm and 7pm near Mauvana," Sagar Bagmar, Superintendent of Police, Kutch East, told TOI. Initial reports suggest death due to severe dehydration and extreme heat. However, a panel postmortem will be conducted on Friday to ascertain the exact cause, Bagmar said.
Pal entered the area with driver Mohammad Ganikhan and assistant Chelaram Mitharam to conduct a survey for BSF infrastructure development. The central govt contracted the firm for the work.
According to sources, their vehicle reportedly developed a technical fault, prompting Pal and his assistant to proceed on foot. Mitharam became exhausted and stayed behind, while Pal continued and subsequently lost communication.
While the driver and Mitharam were traced soon after, Pal remained unaccounted for until his body was located on Thursday.
The search operation involved around 40 personnel from five police stations, along with BSF, forest department teams, drones, and local trackers.
Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays, public holidays, and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.