Missing trekker found safe after multi-team search operation: Khandre

Bengaluru: A 36-year-old woman from Kerala who had gone missing during a trekking expedition at Tadiandamol peak in Kodagu district has been found safe, Karnataka Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar B. Khandre said on Sunday.

Addressing an emergency press conference in Bengaluru, the minister confirmed that G.S. Sharanya, who had been missing since April 2, was traced after an intensive search operation carried out by multiple teams. He added that she is in good health and arrangements have been made to safely send her back to her home in Kerala.

Sharanya had joined a group of 15 trekkers along with a nature guide on April 2. However, when the group returned to the base later that afternoon, it was discovered that she had lost her way in the forest. Search operations were immediately launched the same day with five teams, which were later expanded.

Khandre said that following instructions from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, additional personnel were deployed, taking the total number of search teams to nine. Over 40 forest staff were involved in the operation, along with personnel from the police department, anti-Naxal force, and other agencies. Local tribal communities also assisted in the search efforts.

The minister noted that he was informed about the incident while campaigning for the Davanagere by-election and remained in constant touch with senior officials and the Superintendent of Police. He also confirmed that he has spoken to Sharanya, who is safe and stable.

Praising her resilience, Khandre said it was remarkable that she survived alone in the forest for three days despite the lack of mobile network connectivity, which had made it difficult to trace her exact location and caused delays in the operation.

He also expressed gratitude to all officers and personnel involved in the search mission, acknowledging their coordinated efforts and dedication. Reaffirming the government’s responsibility, the minister stated that authorities are committed to locating and rescuing anyone who goes missing during such activities, regardless of their state of origin.