Hungarian tourist goes missing in India
A Hungarian tourist, Zsolt Puskás, has been missing in India since 29 March, sparking an extensive search operation in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. The disappearance has drawn significant attention, with both local authorities and international representatives involved in efforts to locate him.
Timeline of events
According to reports from The Shillong Times and Telex, Zsolt (Telex refers to him as Zoltán, but according to Indian media, his name is Zsolt) checked into a hotel in Laitumkhrah, Shillong, at approximately 3:45 AM on 29 March. He departed the hotel later that morning around 9 AM and hired a taxi that dropped him off at Mawsahew village near Sohra (Cherrapunjee) around noon. From Mawsahew, Zsolt reportedly set out on foot toward Nongriat, a popular trekking destination known for its picturesque living root bridges. Witnesses say he was traveling alone and carrying only a backpack.
The last confirmed sightings of Zsolt were reported by children who claimed to have seen him near Mawkawir and Ramdait, villages located along his intended trekking route. However, there has been no contact or trace of him since 29 March.
Search efforts
According to Northeast News, the Hungarian Embassy filed an official missing person report with local authorities on 2 April, initiating a coordinated search and rescue operation. The East Khasi Hills police department, led by Superintendent Vivek Syiem, has deployed drones alongside personnel from the police, Home Guards, and local volunteers to scour the area for signs of the missing tourist.
Search efforts have focused on key locations along Zsolt’s presumed route, including the Mawkawir cave and trekking paths leading to Nongriat. Despite these efforts, no evidence has been uncovered so far.
Challenges
The rugged terrain of Meghalaya presents significant challenges for search teams. The region is characterised by dense forests, steep cliffs, and numerous caves, making it difficult to navigate and search thoroughly. Additionally, the delay in reporting Zsolt’s disappearance may have complicated efforts to track his movements.
Indian authorities are continuing their search operations while investigating possible leads from witnesses. Superintendent Syiem confirmed that the search is still active and emphasised the use of drones to cover inaccessible areas. Local communities have also been mobilised to assist in locating Zsolt.
The Hungarian Embassy is closely monitoring developments and coordinating with local authorities to ensure all possible resources are utilised in the search. As of now, there is no indication of foul play, but the circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain unclear. Authorities urge anyone with information about Zsolt’s whereabouts to come forward as search efforts continue.
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