Despite massive search, Tripura tourist Pranab Das remains missing in Dzükou Valley; SAYO urges trekking safety protocols.
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DIMAPUR — The Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) on Saturday expressed regret that a domestic tourist from Tripura, Pranab Das, remains missing despite extensive search operations in and around Dzükou Valley.
A press release informed that Pranab, son of Bikash Das, had gone missing on January 4, 2026, and his last confirmed trace was at the Dzükou ticketing counter in Viswema on the same day. However, there was no record of his arrival at the Dzükou Valley base camp.
The incident was reported to SAYO on January 13.
In response, the youth body launched a massive search and rescue operation involving over 200 volunteers, including police personnel from South and Khuzama police stations, officials from Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), members of Southern Angami Tour Guide Council (SATGC), and volunteers from surrounding Southern Angami villages.
Drone-assisted searches were also deployed to cover difficult terrains across the valley.
The operation, which included the participation of Pranab’s father, uncle, and brother from January 13 to 16, yielded no positive results despite exhaustive efforts.
SAYO extended gratitude to the deputy commissioner and the superintendent of police, Kohima; NSDMA; local police stations; Southern Angami Public Organisation; Khriekesa Pelikro, Angami Youth Organisation; SATGC; and all Southern Angami villages for their support in the operation.
The organisation also reiterated the importance of safety protocols for trekking in Dzükou Valley, which came into effect on October 1, 2025. Tourists, both national and international, are required to engage a local tour guide before entering the valley to ensure safety.
While expressing concern over the recurring incidents, SAYO urged visitors to strictly follow safety guidelines to prevent future mishaps.
Also read: No mega infrastructure in Dzükou Valley, says Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio