Search continues for missing auto-rickshaw driver

The search for 67-year-old Vidyadharan, who went missing after an auto-rickshaw plunged into a stream at Vattappara continued for the third consecutive day on Tuesday.

Teams from the Fire and Rescue Services, specialised scuba divers and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have joined the search operation, using advanced equipment to locate him.

While negotiating a turn near the Chirrakkonam canal at Vettinad, the vehicle reportedly veered into the canal, causing both persons to fall into the river.

The accident occurred on Sunday evening on the Vettinad-Kuttiyani road near Chirakkonam canal. Vidyadharan, a native of Kuttiyani, was returning home with his wife, Lathakumari, after attending a wedding reception when the auto-rickshaw lost control and plunged into the overflowing stream.

Lathakumari, who was seated in the rear of the vehicle, was thrown onto the road and rescued by local residents who rushed to the spot after hearing her cries. However, Vidyadharan was swept away by the strong current along with the vehicle.

Although the auto-rickshaw was later recovered from the stream, Vidyadharan remained missing.

Rescue teams initially searched the accident site and surrounding areas. On Monday, scuba divers and local residents extended the search over nearly 10 km downstream. However, the operation ended without any breakthrough due to strong currents and poor visibility.

On Tuesday, the search was intensified from Vettinadu towards the Vamanapuram river. Specialised NDRF teams equipped with scanners and other advanced search equipment also joined the operation. The rescuers are also examining thick vegetation and overgrown areas along both banks of the stream.  

Published - November 03, 2026 08:08 pm IST