Tragedy at Mullungummi: Three Teenagers Swept Away While Taking Selfies

New Delhi, April 10, 2026— What was intended to be a scenic outing turned into a harrowing tragedy this week at the Mullungummi waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh. Three teenage girls were swept away by powerful currents while attempting to take photographs at the edge of the falls.

The incident, which was captured in a chilling video now circulating on social media, serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by water bodies during the monsoon season.

The Incident: A Momentary Lapse with Fatal Consequences

The victims, part of a group visiting the picturesque spot in the Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district, had reportedly ventured onto the slippery rocks near the crest of the waterfall. According to eyewitness accounts, the girls were attempting to capture a selfie with the cascading water in the background.

Witnesses stated that the water levels rose suddenly—a common but deadly phenomenon in hilly terrains known as a flash surge. One of the girls lost her footing on the moss-covered rocks, and as the others reached out to save her, the sheer force of the current pulled all three into the deep gorge below.

Key Details of the Tragedy:

• Location: Mullungummi Waterfalls, ASR District, Andhra Pradesh.
• Cause: Sudden increase in water velocity while the victims were positioned in a high-risk zone for photography.
• Response: Local villagers and police initiated an immediate search operation, though the turbulent conditions hampered initial efforts.

The Viral Footage

A video of the incident has surfaced, showing the frantic moments leading up to the accident. In the footage, onlookers can be heard screaming warnings as the water gains strength. The rapid nature of the event highlights how quickly a recreational environment can turn lethal, leaving no room for reaction or rescue.

Rising Concerns Over “Selfie Deaths”

This incident adds to a growing and concerning trend of “selfie-related accidents” across India’s tourist hotspots. Authorities have frequently issued warnings about the deceptive nature of waterfalls during the rainy season.

“The rocks near these falls are extremely slippery due to algae and constant mist,” noted a local safety official. “When you combine unstable footing with the unpredictable nature of mountain streams, the risk is 100%. No photograph is worth a life.”

Safety Measures to Remember

To prevent such tragedies, visitors to natural landmarks are urged to follow these guidelines:

1. Respect Barriers: Never cross safety railings or “No Entry” signs.
2. Watch the Weather: Upstream rain can cause water levels to rise downstream in seconds, even if it isn’t raining at your location.
3. Prioritize Footing: Avoid mossy or wet rocks near the water’s edge.
4. Stay Alert: Use a “designated photographer” from a safe distance rather than attempting risky selfies on the brink of a drop.

Current Status of the Search

Local authorities and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed to the area. While search operations are ongoing, the heavy flow of the waterfall and the rocky terrain of the valley have made the recovery process exceptionally difficult.

The local administration is expected to implement stricter restrictions at Mullungummi and surrounding tourist spots to prevent further loss of life during the peak monsoon months.