Rescue worker R. Rajesh dies after saving farmer in Kerala floods
R. Rajesh, a 36-year-old swimming and rappelling instructor from Thiruvananthapuram, died while conducting rescue operations in Kerala's Kannur district. On August 2, Rajesh gave his life jacket to a 61-year-old farmer named Benny to save him from floodwaters near Meenthulli Island. Rajesh was swept away by the strong current during the rescue, and his body was recovered three days later on Wednesday.
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What Happened
R. Rajesh, a 36-year-old rescue volunteer and instructor from Thiruvananthapuram, was participating in relief efforts in Kannur district following heavy rains that caused sudden flooding on August 1. On August 2, while operating near Meenthulli Island, Rajesh provided his own life jacket to a 61-year-old farmer named Benny to ensure the man's safety. During the operation, Rajesh was caught in the strong current and swept away. His body was recovered by search teams on Wednesday after a three-day search operation.
Rajesh was an experienced rescue worker who had previously participated in relief efforts during the 2018 Kerala floods and the 2024 Wayanad landslides. His death has prompted expressions of grief from political leaders across the state, including the Chief Minister and opposition figures, in recognition of his history of service and his final act of sacrifice.
Key Facts
- R. Rajesh was a 36-year-old swimming and rappelling instructor.Source not recorded
- The incident occurred in the Kannur district of Kerala.Source not recorded
- Rajesh died after giving his life jacket to a 61-year-old farmer named Benny.Source not recorded
- The rescue attempt took place near Meenthulli Island on August 2.Source not recorded
- Rajesh's body was recovered on Wednesday after a three-day search.Source not recorded
- Rajesh had previously assisted in rescue operations during the 2018 Kerala floods and 2024 Wayanad landslides.Source not recorded
The Timeline2
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5 Aug
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- Teluguతెలుగు1 of 2
- Odiaଓଡ଼ିଆ1 of 2
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- None carried this
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- 1 outlet
- 2 or more
- Where the story is
- NorthNot carried0 of 4
- WestNot carried0 of 5
- Central IndiaNot carried0 of 1
- EastCarried1 of 5
- North-eastNot carried0 of 2
- SouthCarried1 of 10
2 of the 26 states we read have local coverage. Spread across the country, with no regional concentration.
About This Analysis
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