Last updated:
On August 23, 2024, rescue workers entered a deep pit in Kuala Lumpur after a woman fell into a deep pit when part of the sidewalk collapsed.
G. Vijaya Lakshmi, 48, fell into a sinkhole formed on Masjid Road in the Malaysian capital on August 23 and has been missing since then.
The search for an Indian woman in Malaysia ended abruptly on Saturday, nine days after she fell into a sinkhole and authorities found search conditions “extremely challenging”.
G. Vijaya Lakshmi, 48, fell into a sinkhole formed on Masjid Road in the Malaysian capital on August 23 and has been missing since then. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the decision was taken after a detailed assessment of expert and technical advice, the Malay Mail reported on Saturday. Now entering the ninth day.
She told reporters at the scene: “After nine days of search and rescue (SAR) and consideration by the cabinet and experts including police, search teams, geologists, etc., we have decided to stop the search today for the sinkhole.” Dr Zaliha said that while the obstruction was found during the search, it could not be clearly identified.
The Malay Mail quoted her as saying: “At this time, we must also consider the safety of the personnel involved in the special zone because the conditions in the special zone are extremely challenging.” She also said that the emergence of a second sinkhole in the area has also caused It raised concerns that the risk to search crews could increase.
“Beyond that, we need to resume normal activities here and ensure the safety of people using these streets.” The minister also said that although the special zone operation has been terminated, efforts to find the woman will continue, but will enter a new stages and are handled by different agencies.
According to the report, Dr Zaliha said Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will be responsible for utility surveying, land structure analysis and working with suppliers to assist them in resuming activities. “Kuala Lumpur City Hall will handle the recovery and reconstruction of the affected areas, which will include sealing the entrance to Maidin to ensure public safety,” she explained.
Dr Zaliha said she also spoke to India's ambassador to Malaysia, who she said expressed gratitude for the efforts made so far to find his compatriot. She also said the envoy understood the reasons for halting active searches.
She also confirmed that the victims' families have been informed of the decision and their visas have been extended by one week to facilitate them during this difficult time. A search and rescue operation was launched on the same day, with members from various security forces and local authorities using a variety of techniques, including the use of tracking dogs and “spraying” methods.
