Trekker dies after falling into Irshalgad gorge in Maharashtra's Raigad

A 26-year-old man died while trekking at Irshalgad, Raigad, after falling into a 300-foot gorge; family reported him missing after he failed to return.

A 26-year-old man from Bhiwandi died after plunging into a deep gorge while trekking at Irshalgad in Raigad district over the weekend.

Bhiwandi trekker, 26, dies after fall at Irshalgad

The deceased, Akash Ramchandra Waghmode, a computer operator with a private firm, had set out on a solo trek early on April 11 in Khalapur taluka. He called his family around 10am to inform them that he had reached the top and would return by evening.

However, when Waghmode failed to return home and did not answer repeated calls, his family alerted the police.

A search operation was launched on Sunday by local police along with members of Help Foundation, a rescue group, villagers and a technical team. Officials said the rescue team faced difficulties due to the steep terrain and harsh weather conditions.

He was rushed to a government hospital in Chowk, where doctors declared him dead.

Police said preliminary findings suggest that Waghmode may have slipped and fallen during the trek. Some officials also suspect he may have lost balance while attempting to take a selfie.

His family has stated that they do not suspect any foul play. The body was sent for post-mortem, police said.