Kuala Lumpur sinkhole: Search divers brave zero visibility, dangerous conditions
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A woman fell into an 8m deep sinkhole in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 23.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
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KUALA LUMPUR - Even as they venture into the murky depths of the sewage network under the city to look for a woman who fell into a sinkhole on Aug 23
Fire operation officer Alimaddia Bukri said their sense of duty overcomes any fears they may have as they search for the Indian national.
“When going down into the hole... it was really scary, but this is indeed the duty of a firefighter; we have to overcome the fear and surrender to God,” he told Sinar Harian.
Mr Alimaddia shared a 57-second video showing the conditions faced by the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department’s Scuba Unit.
He said rescuers had to dive deep into the sewer amid strong currents and zero visibility. The tight space also makes any movement difficult.
He added that heavy rain has made the situation worse, posing risks to the safety of the divers.
“In that hole, there is a sewage drain and other drains; it’s really deep.
“We have discussed and obtained advice from the relevant experts before making any decision in this operation,” he said.
Despite the risks, Mr Alimaddia said the rescuers would do whatever it takes for victims in distress or danger, and assured the victim’s family that they were doing their best.
He also thanked members of the public for their prayers for the rescuers involved in the operation. “Thankful to all parties who appreciate our work,” he added.
The victim, identified as Ms Vijayalaksmi, 48, a tourist from India, fell into the 8m-deep sinkhole in Jalan Masjid India at 8.22am on Aug 23 when the ground gave way while she was walking to a nearby temple. THE STAR/ ASIA NEWS NETWORK
