Tragedy at Sela Lake: One Dead, One Missing After Falling Through Thin Ice

New Delhi, january 17, 2026: A scenic winter excursion turned into a tragedy on Friday afternoon when a group of tourists from Kerala met with a fatal accident at the high-altitude Sela Lake. One young man has been confirmed dead, while search operations continue for another who remains missing after the frozen surface of the lake gave way.

The victims were part of a seven-member group that had traveled to the Tawang district from Guwahati. The incident has once again highlighted the extreme risks of venturing onto high-altitude frozen water bodies during the winter season.

The Incident: A Rescue Attempt Gone Wrong

According to local authorities and police reports, the accident occurred around 3:00 PM on Friday. The group was visiting Sela Lake, situated at a staggering altitude of approximately 13,700 feet.

Initial reports suggest that one member of the group ventured onto the ice—reportedly to position a camera for a photograph—when the thin crust shattered, plunging him into the sub-zero waters. In a desperate and heroic bid to save their companion, two other members of the group, identified as Dinu (26) and Mahadev (24), rushed onto the ice.

While the first tourist was successfully pulled to safety, the ice further collapsed under the weight of the rescuers. Both Dinu and Mahadev were swept beneath the frozen surface.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Upon receiving the alert, a massive joint rescue operation was launched involving:

• The Indian Army (Gajraj Corps)
• Arunachal Pradesh Police
• Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
• State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)

Braving bone-chilling temperatures and fading light, divers and rescue teams managed to retrieve the body of 26-year-old Dinu. He was transported to the Jang Community Health Centre, where he was tragically declared dead.

The search for Mahadev (24) had to be suspended late Friday evening due to heavy snowfall, extreme cold, and zero visibility. Operations resumed early Saturday morning as teams continued to scour the depths of the lake despite the treacherous conditions.

Ignored Warnings and High-Altitude Risks

Superintendent of Police (Tawang), D.W. Thongon, noted that the district administration had issued a strict advisory in December 2025, prohibiting tourists from walking on frozen lakes.

“Warning signboards are clearly installed at Sela Lake and other popular spots. We have repeatedly cautioned that while these lakes appear solid, the ice cover is often fragile and cannot support human weight,” the SP stated.

Sela Lake is a primary attraction on the way to Tawang, known for its “crystal” appearance in winter. However, the thickness of the ice can be deceptive, especially near the center of the lake where the water remains slightly warmer or more turbulent.

Safety Advisory for Travelers

Authorities have reiterated the following safety protocols for tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh during the peak winter months:

1. Stay on Designated Paths: Always use concrete walkways or marked trails provided by the administration.
2. Avoid Frozen Surfaces: Never attempt to walk, slide, or pose for photos on frozen lakes, regardless of how “thick” the ice appears.
3. Respect Local Warnings: Pay attention to signboards and advice from local guides or military personnel stationed in the area.
4. Weather Awareness: High-altitude weather can change in minutes; always carry emergency supplies and follow the directions of the Indian Army.

As of Saturday afternoon, the remaining five members of the tourist group have been moved to a nearby Army camp, where they are receiving medical attention and trauma counseling.