Dramatic Rescue of Real Estate Broker in Tamhini Ghat Valley

A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in the early hours of Friday when Pune-based real estate broker Sandesh Hadvale, 47, slipped 200 feet into a valley in the Tamhini Ghat stretch near Mangaon, Raigad. Hadvale, who was returning to Pune from Chiplun, Ratnagiri, got out of his car around 2 AM to attend to nature's call and slipped into the valley due to the darkness. He sustained massive fractures in his right leg and other injuries.

Hadvale and his driver were traveling back to Pune after a trip to Chiplun. Hadvale had allegedly crossed the gap between the roadside safety walls, leading to his loss of balance. The local police suspect that he might have been under the influence of alcohol, although this has not been confirmed.

Upon receiving an alert from Hadvale's driver, the Mangaon police reached the spot at 3 AM. The rescue operation, which was conducted under challenging conditions, involved ten members from two teams. One of the teams, Sahyadri Vanyajeev Rakshanarth Samajik Sanstha, led by Sagar Dahimbekar, played a crucial role in the rescue. Another team, Vira Patnus, also joined the effort.

Constable Yuvraj Dahiphale of the Mangaon police said, “The adventure sports rope brought by the rescue team from Vira Patnus team fell short of reaching the victim. Thereafter, the other team was pressed into the rescue operation. Both the rescue teams, joined by the police, pulled him out of the valley. An ambulance was stationed on the spot, but he preferred to travel in his own car due to pre-existing ligament issues.”

The operation, conducted in the darkness, was particularly tough, according to Sagar Dahimbekar. He added, “The operation conducted under darkness was a tough one. The terrain was steep and the visibility was extremely low, making it a high-risk operation.”

Hadvale was finally rescued by 5:30 AM and was rushed to a hospital in Pune for treatment. His condition is stable, and he is currently undergoing medical treatment.

The Tamhini Ghat, a scenic and winding stretch of road, is known for its challenging terrain and steep valleys. The incident highlights the importance of road safety and the need for travelers to exercise caution, especially during nighttime journeys. The rescue operation also showcases the bravery and quick response of local rescue teams and the police, who worked tirelessly to save Hadvale's life.