A relentless overnight rescue operation in the swollen Swarnamukhi River near Vedanthapuram, Tirupati, yielded grim results on Saturday as authorities recovered the bodies of three of the four youths who drowned on October 24. The fourth victim remains missing, with NDRF, Fire Services, and local police deploying boats, nets, and drone surveillance amid heavy rain and treacherous currents to continue the search.

Tirupati District SP L Subba Rayudu and Chandragiri MLA Nani camped at the site, personally directing the multi-agency effort. “No stone will be left unturned until the last body is found,” the SP declared, issuing strict orders for round-the-clock operations. YSRCP Chandragiri in-charge Chevi Reddy Mohit Reddy also joined the supervision, coordinating with divers and ensuring logistical support despite adverse weather.

The tragedy unfolded when four local youths ventured into the river for a swim, underestimating the sudden surge caused by upstream releases and recent rains. Bystanders raised the alarm, but strong currents swept them away within minutes. The recovered bodies—identified through personal belongings and family confirmation—have been sent for post-mortem, with funeral arrangements underway under police escort.

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Authorities have now installed warning boards along a 40-km stretch from Thondawada to Srikalahasti, banning entry into the river and intensifying patrolling to prevent further incidents. Drone footage is being analyzed to map submerged obstacles and pinpoint potential locations where the missing youth may be trapped in underwater debris or downstream pools.

SP Subba Rayudu expressed profound grief, assuring full government assistance—including ex-gratia payments and counseling—to the bereaved families. Local temples have announced special prayers, while community leaders called for permanent safety infrastructure like fencing and lifeguard posts along dangerous riverbanks during monsoon season. The search resumes at dawn, with hope fading but determination unbroken.

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