Army personnel drowns in Kerala river; body recovered after search

An army personnel identified as Sudheesh, a resident of Peruvayal in Kerala, drowned in the Chaliyar river on Monday. The soldier, who served with the Madras Engineering Group, had been on authorized leave since October 14.

Local authorities launched a search and rescue operation after Sudheesh went missing in the river. The operation continued for several hours before recovery teams located and retrieved his body from the water.

The exact circumstances leading to the drowning remain under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest Sudheesh may have ventured into the river while on leave in his native district.

The incident has prompted local authorities to review safety protocols along the Chaliyar river, which has witnessed several drowning incidents in recent years. The army has been informed of the soldier's death, and necessary procedures are being followed for the next of kin.