Search for missing Indian woman in Kuala Lumpur sinkhole called ...

The search for G. Vijaya Lakshmi, a 48-year-old

Indian woman

who fell into a

sinkhole

in

Kuala Lumpur

on August 23, has been called off after nine days due to "extremely challenging" conditions.
Indonesian minister

Dr Zaliha Mustafa

said that the decision was made following a thorough evaluation of expert and technical advice from various parties, including the police, search team, and geologists.

However, efforts to locate the woman will continue under the responsibility of different agencies despite the termination of the

search and rescue

(SAR) operation
Dr Zaliha stated that although an obstruction was detected during the search, it could not be positively identified. The safety of the SAR personnel was a major concern, as the conditions were extremely difficult. The appearance of a second sinkhole in the area further increased the risk to the search team.

Dr Zaliha also mentioned that she had a conversation with the Indian ambassador to Malaysia regarding the situation. The ambassador expressed gratitude for the efforts made thus far in the search for his compatriot and understood the reasoning behind the decision to discontinue the active search.
Furthermore, the minister said that to accommodate the family during this challenging period, their visas have been extended for an additional week.

Additionally, the minister said that normal activities need to be resumed in the area and the safety of people using the streets is to be ensured. Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will be tasked with utility mapping, land structure analysis, and engaging with vendors to help them resume their activities.
The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will be responsible for the recovery and reconstruction efforts in the areas affected by the incident.
"DBKL will handle the recovery and reconstruction in the affected areas, which will include cordoning off the entrance from Mydin to ensure public safety," said the minister.
The search and rescue operation, which commenced on the same day as the incident, involved members from various security forces and local authorities. They employed a range of techniques, including the use of tracker dog units and the 'jetting' method, in their efforts to locate the missing individual.