VIJAYAWADA: Vijaya Lakshmi, a 45-year-old woman from AP's Animiganipalle village in Kuppam of Chittoor district, has been reported missing after falling into a sinkhole in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The incident took place near Malayan Mansion on Jalan Masjid road when the pavement she was walking on collapsed, causing her to fall into the sinkhole. Vijaya Lakshmi, who was staying in Malaysia with her son and husband for two months and running a fancy store, was set to return to India in a week.
Chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu responded by instructing Andhra Pradesh Non-Resident Telugu Society (APNRTS) officials to assist Vijaya Lakshmi's family and ensure that the search efforts are thorough and comprehensive.
The authorities in Malaysia are working to find the missing woman. Officials are also attempting to contact the victim's son in Malaysia and her relatives in Kuppam.
Incident captured by nearby CCTV camera
The incident was captured by a nearby CCTV camera. The Kuala Lumpur fire and rescue department responded by sending 15 firefighters. Despite their efforts, including the use of an excavator to clear debris, there has been no trace of Vijaya Lakshmi.
The rescue operation, which was temporarily suspended due to rain on Friday night, resumed on Saturday morning and is still going on. Local authorities, such as Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa, expressed concern that astrong underground water flow may have carried Vijaya Lakshmi away.
After nearly 17 hours of search, rescuers could only find a pair of slippers belonging to her near the location. The rescue team has encountered various challenges, including strong currents, gas, and sewerage that could pose risks to the scuba team. The police chief emphasised that the area around the location is safe but advised the public to minimise movement in the vicinity.
As of Saturday night, no updates on Vijaya Lakshmi's condition were available. Her family, still in a state of shock, is receiving support from local authorities and the Indian High Commission, which is also assisting with visa extensions and other necessary formalities.
After nearly 17 hours of search, rescuers could only find a pair of slippers belonging to her near the location. The rescue team has encountered various challenges, including strong currents, gas, and sewerage that could pose risks to the scuba team. The police chief emphasised that the area around the location is safe but advised the public to minimise movement in the vicinity.
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