Mishap occurs in Chilika Lake since the beginning of New Year as tourist dies after falling off floating boat
The deceased has been identified as 60-year-old Umashankar Sabat of Balimela area in Malkangiri district. He had reportedly gone there on a tour along with his family members and friends.
Puri: The Chilika Lake witnessed mishap since the beginning of the New Year 2026 as a tourist died reportedly after falling off the floating boat in Satapada area of Puri district today.
The deceased has been identified as 60-year-old Umashankar Sabat of Balimela area in Malkangiri district. He had reportedly gone there on a tour along with his family members and friends.
The floating boat service in the Chilika Lake was reportedly suspended for more than an hour this morning following dense fog in the area. However, when the services resumed, many tourists along with several vehicles including buses started their journey towards Janhikuda from Satapada.
In the meantime, Umashankar, who was on a tour along with his family members and friends, fell into the water from the floating boat and went missing.
On being informed, the local fire-fighters with the help of the fishermen initiated a frantic search and recovered his bag, cap, slippers and water bottle.
Hours after the operation, Umashankar’s body was fished out and sent for post-mortem. Besides, arrangements were also made for other passengers and vehicles to reach Janhikuda.
The tragic incident on the New Year Day has raised eyebrow over the safety measures taken by the concerned officials.
