Old Courtallam Falls: nestled in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, has long been a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists.

Its cascading waters, lush greenery, and serene ambiance draw visitors from far and wide. However, on that fateful day, the tranquility was shattered by an unexpected disaster.

Old Courtallam Falls: The Setting

The Pazhaya Courtallam Falls, also known as Pazhaya Courtallam, is one of the oldest waterfalls in the region. It comprises a series of smaller falls, each with its unique charm. The main waterfall, surrounded by rocky cliffs and dense vegetation, is a sight to behold during the monsoon season.

The Incident of Old Courtallam Falls

On Friday, May 17, 2024, the falls were teeming with tourists. Families, friends, and solo travelers gathered to witness the natural spectacle. Ashwin, a 17-year-old boy from NGO Colony in Palayamkottai, was among them. Little did he know that this outing would turn into a tragedy.

The Flashflood at Old Courtallam Falls

Around 2:30 p.m., as visitors marveled at the gushing water, dark clouds gathered overhead. The monsoon rains, intensified by weather systems over the Gulf of Mannar and Kanniyakumari, unleashed their fury.

Within minutes, the peaceful stream turned into a raging torrent. The water level rose rapidly, catching everyone off guard.

Desperate Attempts to Rescue

Panicked screams echoed through the valley as tourists scrambled for safety. Shopkeepers and locals rushed to help.

The police were alerted, and Collector A.K. Kamal Kishore and Superintendent of Police T.P. Suresh Kumar arrived swiftly. Their priority: to rescue Ashwin.

Ashwin’s Tragic Fate

Despite their best efforts, Ashwin was swept away by the powerful current. His relatives, who had been with him, watched in horror.

The rescue team scoured the area, but the force of the water made it nearly impossible to reach him. Approximately 500 meters downstream from the waterfall, Ashwin’s lifeless body was eventually recovered at 5:10 p.m.

Safety Measures and Awareness at Old Courtallam Falls

The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature. While the allure of waterfalls draws us, we must also respect their power. Here are some safety measures for visitors:

1. Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts before visiting waterfalls. Sudden rains can lead to flashfloods.
   
2. Obey Signs and Warnings: Follow guidelines provided by local authorities. If a waterfall is closed due to heavy rains, respect the closure.

Avoid Risky Behavior: Do not venture too close to the edge or swim in turbulent waters.

Community Mourning

The entire community mourns Ashwin’s loss. His schoolmates remember him as a bright student with dreams of becoming an engineer.

His family, devastated by the tragedy, hopes that others will learn from this incident.

Conclusion

As the sun sets over the Old Courtallam Falls, we reflect on the fragility of life and the power of nature. May Ashwin’s memory remind us to appreciate the beauty around us while staying vigilant and safe.

Note: All the data collected from Internet and Media Sources

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Old Courtallam Falls?

The Old Courtallam Falls, also known as Pazhaya Courtallam, is a historic waterfall located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. It is renowned for its natural beauty, lush surroundings, and serene ambiance.

How old is Old Courtallam Falls?

The Pazhaya Courtallam Falls has a rich history and is considered one of the oldest waterfalls in the region. Its age is estimated to be several centuries.

What makes Old Courtallam Falls unique?

The uniqueness of Old Courtallam lies in its multi-tiered structure. It consists of a series of smaller falls, each with distinct characteristics. The main waterfall, surrounded by rocky cliffs and dense vegetation, is particularly captivating during the monsoon season.

Is it safe to visit Old Courtallam Falls during the monsoon?

While the falls are mesmerizing during the monsoon, safety should always be a priority. Here are some precautions:

1. Check Weather Forecasts: Before planning a visit, monitor weather updates. Sudden rains can lead to flashfloods.
   
2. Obey Signs and Warnings: Respect closures if authorities deem the falls unsafe due to heavy rainfall.
   
3. Stay Away from Edges: Avoid venturing too close to the water’s edge, especially during high water flow.

What happened during the recent tragedy at Old Courtallam Falls?

On May 17, 2024, a flashflood occurred at Pazhaya Courtallam Falls Ashwin, a 17-year-old boy, was swept away by the powerful current. Despite rescue efforts, his lifeless body was found downstream.

How can visitors pay tribute to Ashwin’s memory?

Ashwin’s family and the community mourn his loss. Visitors can honor his memory by adhering to safety guidelines, appreciating nature’s beauty, and staying vigilant while enjoying waterfalls.

Are there other waterfalls near Old Courtallam?

Yes, the region boasts several waterfalls, including the Main Falls and the Five Falls. Each offers a unique experience for visitors.

Can I swim in Old Courtallam Falls?

Swimming is not recommended due to the unpredictable water currents. Enjoy the view from a safe distance.

Remember, while exploring Pazhaya Courtallam Falls, let curiosity guide you, but always respect nature’s power.