Accident – Death – Obituary News :
B. Veerakumar of Tiruppur, who died after a fall from the Vellingiri hills near Coimbatore while on a trek for a pilgrimage
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
A tragic incident occurred on the Vellingiri hills near Coimbatore, where a 31-year-old man from Tiruppur lost his life while on a pilgrimage trek. The man, identified as B. Veerakumar, sustained fatal injuries after falling from a steep portion of the hills on April 19, resulting in his untimely demise on April 22. This unfortunate event marks the eighth fatality during this pilgrimage season on the Vellingiri hills.
The Incident
Veerakumar, a resident of S.V. Colony in Tiruppur, embarked on the trek with his friends on April 18. The group began their journey in the afternoon and camped at the hilltop. Tragedy struck the following morning when Veerakumar fell from a steep section while descending the seventh hill.
Upon receiving information about the fall from Veerakumar’s friend Jagadeesh around 7 a.m., the victim’s mother, B. Jothimani, filed a complaint at the Alandurai police station.
Rescue and Treatment
Efforts were made to rescue Veerakumar, and he was brought downhill on a bamboo stretcher by 5.45 p.m. He was then taken to the primary health centre at Pooluvapatti and later transferred to the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital for medical attention.
Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Veerakumar passed away at 3.15 p.m. on Monday, failing to respond to treatment. In a statement to the Alandurai police, Jothimani expressed no suspicions regarding her son’s tragic death.
Forest Department Advisory
Following this unfortunate incident, the Forest Department has issued advisories for pilgrims trekking the Vellingiri hills during Chithra Pournami. Pilgrims are reminded to stick to designated trekking routes and avoid using other paths to ensure their safety. Additionally, pilgrims are advised to trek in groups rather than alone to minimize risks.
As the community mourns the loss of B. Veerakumar, authorities continue to stress the importance of caution and adherence to safety guidelines when undertaking treks in the region.
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