Young group rescued after going missing in Hanthana Mountains amid adverse weather
June 29, Colombo (LNW): A group of eight individuals, ranging in age from 12 to 24, has been safely rescued after losing their way during an excursion in the Hanthana Mountain Range near Kandy.
The group had set out for a hike yesterday (28) afternoon but failed to return as expected, prompting concern among family members.
Challenging weather conditions, including persistent rainfall and heavy mist, are believed to have disoriented the group, making it difficult for them to navigate back.
The dense foliage and slippery terrain added to the complexity of the situation, leaving them stranded as night fell.
Upon being alerted by worried parents, authorities swiftly mobilised a coordinated search effort. Personnel from both the Sri Lanka Army and the Police were deployed to comb the mountainous terrain. The search operation, which extended into the night, ultimately succeeded in locating all members of the group unharmed.
Following their rescue, the individuals—some of whom were visibly exhausted and mildly hypothermic—were transported to the Peradeniya Teaching Hospital for medical assessment and care.
