Bhubaneswar: Two women drowned in the Ghodahada River while taking a holy dip during the Kartik month in Tikarapada village under Digapahandi block in, Ganjam district, on Monday.
The deceased has been identified as Sabita Gouda and Lalita Padhi, residents of Tikarapada village.
According to reports, some villagers, including the two women, had gone to the river for a holy dip around 3 am, a customary practice during the Kartik month. While bathing, the two women suddenly were swept away by the strong river currents.
Upon being informed, the fire brigade team and locals rushed to the spot and initiated rescue operations. Their bodies were recovered and taken to the Digapahandi Hospital where they were declared dead.
The Ghodahada River is currently experiencing high water levels due to the cyclone Montha and the district administration has issued warnings advising people to avoid taking bath in the river. Despite warnings, people continue to take bath in the river, leading to such tragic incidents.
