In a distressing incident at the Ajanta Caves in India, a tourist had a narrow escape after falling into a 70-foot gorge while attempting to take a selfie. The mishap occurred as the man was trying to capture himself at the picturesque location near Saptakund Waterfall.
His slip caused him to plummet into the deep ravine. Fortunately, the tourist managed to cling to a sturdy rock amidst the rushing waters, sustaining his grip until authorities arrived to rescue him. Gripping footage of the rescue has since been widely circulated online.
According to The Times of India, the unfortunate incident took place when the tourist and his four companions were at the viewing point near Saptkunda waterfall.
Fascinated by the stunning backdrop, the group decided to document the moment with some selfies. Tragically, as the man was focused on taking the perfect shot, he lost his footing and tumbled into the adjacent 70-foot gorge.
Quick-thinking, the man’s friends wasted no time informing the authorities and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) staff. Meanwhile, the stranded tourist clung tenaciously to a rock and awaited help.
Local tourist guides collaborated with the police and officials from the archaeology department to locate the individual successfully. Upon discovering him desperately grasping onto the stones along the waterfall, a team of rescue personnel used ropes and harnesses to extricate the man from his perilous situation.
The widely-shared video of the rescue showcases the brave efforts of over 10 individuals maneuvering a long rope to save the stranded man. Suspended from a cable above the cascading waterfall, the tourist is carefully guided toward safety as the group painstakingly pulls him away from the roaring rush of water and onto the secure cliffs.
Reports indicate that the tourist swam after falling into the gorge, thereby buying critical time and aiding the rescue efforts of the authorities. However, this incident serves as a harsh reminder of the dangers associated with selfie-taking.
A study conducted by the iO Foundation reveals that between January 2008 and July 2021, 379 individuals lost their lives while attempting to capture selfies worldwide. India ranked highest on the list, with 100 reported deaths, closely followed by the United States with 39 fatalities.
Researchers also identified the ten most perilous spots on earth for taking selfies. These treacherous locations include Glen Canyon in the U.S., Niagara Falls in Canada, Charco del Burro in Colombia, and Penha beach in Brazil.
With this invaluable data, it becomes crucial for photographers to exercise caution and prioritize their safety when seeking that perfect shot, surrounded by stunning, but potentially hazardous scenery.