KUALA LUMPUR – The search and rescue operation for Ms. Vijayalaksmi, an Indian tourist who fell into a sinkhole in downtown Kuala Lumpur on August 23, has officially been called off, authorities announced on August 31.
Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), stated that the decision to halt the operation was made after consultations with experts from the fire and rescue department, police, and other relevant agencies. The Cabinet was also informed of the decision.
“There are various factors for halting the operation, which include the safety and health of the rescue personnel,” Dr. Zaliha explained during a press conference. She also confirmed that the victim’s family and the Indian High Commission have been informed and are in constant contact with the Malaysian authorities.
Ms. Vijayalaksmi, a 48-year-old tourist from Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, fell 8 meters into the sinkhole that suddenly opened on the pavement in Jalan Masjid India, a bustling shopping district. She was reportedly heading towards a nearby temple at the time of the incident.
Following the cessation of the search operation, Dr. Zaliha stated that the Malaysian police would lead the subsequent phase of search and recovery, determining the next steps to be taken.
“The Kuala Lumpur City Council will also map the utilities and conduct a soil structure study throughout Kuala Lumpur and proceed with the rebuilding and recovery of Jalan Masjid India,” she said. The city council will engage with local businesses to ensure they can resume their activities promptly.
Earlier in the week, Malaysian authorities mentioned that a portion of a large concrete sewer at the bottom of the sinkhole was broken, and it was suspected that Ms. Vijayalaksmi might have been swept away by fast-moving water in the sewer, exacerbated by heavy rainfall in Kuala Lumpur.