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Representative image · Photo: th-i.thgim.com
Representative image · Photo: th-i.thgim.com

Two Youths Rescued After Getting Lost in Kerala's Attappady Forest

Two youths were rescued in a midnight operation after losing their way in the Chenthamala forest in Attappady, Kerala, where they had gone to film Neelakurinji flowers.

Two young men were safely rescued from the Chenthamala forest in Attappady, Kerala, following a coordinated midnight operation by forest department officials. The duo had ventured into the restricted area without permission, drawn by the blooming Neelakurinji flowers, a rare botanical spectacle that occurs once every twelve years.

According to forest officials, the youths entered the forest to film the vibrant purple blossoms but soon lost their bearings as daylight faded. Unable to find their way back, they became stranded in the dense wilderness, prompting a search-and-rescue mission that continued through the night.

The rescue team navigated the challenging terrain to locate the missing individuals and bring them to safety. The incident highlights the risks of entering forest areas without official clearance, particularly in regions where the seasonal Neelakurinji bloom attracts visitors. Authorities have reiterated the need for permits and guided tours when exploring such ecologically sensitive zones.