Rayagada: An 18-year-old youth from Andhra Pradesh drowned while bathing in the Nagavali river at Mariguda near Rayagada town on Friday.
Sai Krishna, who had visited the revered Maa Majhighariani temple with his family, was swept away by the river current while taking a dip near the hanging bridge.
The police and fire department launched a rescue operation and recovered the body. Such incidents faced by tourists at the hanging bridge have become regular affairs. Many have lost their lives while taking selfies amidst the natural beauty of the Nagavali river.
Despite repeated warnings from the administration, tourists continue to disregard safety restrictions, posing a significant risk to their lives. This is not an isolated incident, as two students from a local private school lost their lives just a few days ago.