Bizarre Incident: Two Mahindra Thars and a Tractor Get Stuck in Koyna Riverbed, Video Goes Viral
Bizarre Incident: Two Mahindra Thars and a Tractor Get Stuck in Koyna Riverbed, Video Goes Viral
Tourists attempting off-road stunts in the drying Koyna reservoir found themselves trapped in deep marshy terrain, forcing a crane rescue operation and triggering concern among locals and netizens.
A viral video from Satara district has highlighted the dangers of adventurous driving in the drying riverbed of the Koyna reservoir. What began as an off-road thrill ride for a group of tourists quickly turned into a costly rescue operation after multiple vehicles, including Mahindra Thar SUVs and a tractor, became stuck in deep mud hidden beneath the seemingly dry surface.
The incident occurred near the Shivsagar reservoir in Bamnoli, where receding water levels have exposed long-submerged villages and ancient temple remains. The unusual sight has attracted a growing number of tourists eager to explore the historic landscape emerging from beneath the water.
However, the viral video shows how deceptive the terrain can be.
According to reports, a tourist drove a Mahindra Thar into the dry-looking riverbed to enjoy an off-road experience. While the surface appeared firm from above, the vehicle soon sank into marshy ground and became stuck.
In an attempt to rescue the first SUV, another Mahindra Thar was brought to the site. But the second vehicle also became trapped in the mud, leaving both vehicles stranded.
What followed only made matters worse.
A tractor was then called to pull the SUVs out of the marshland. However, the tractor itself got stuck in the soft ground, creating an even bigger challenge for rescuers.
After several failed attempts, a crane had to be brought in to recover all the vehicles from the riverbed.
The incident comes at a time when the Koyna reservoir’s water level has dropped significantly. Due to below-normal rainfall in recent weeks, several parts of the reservoir have dried up, exposing structures that had remained underwater for decades. The emerging ruins have become a major attraction for visitors and photography enthusiasts.
While the video has generated amusement on social media, many users have also expressed concern over risky driving and stunt activities in sensitive reservoir areas.
“From above it looks like solid land, but underneath it can be soft marsh. One wrong move and even a powerful SUV can get trapped,” remarked off-road vehicle trainer Nitin Patankar.
“Reservoir beds are unpredictable. Drivers often underestimate the depth of mud because the surface appears dry. Such adventures should be avoided without proper assessment,” said environmental expert Dr. Shweta Kulkarni.
Local residents have also urged visitors to exercise caution.
“People come here to see the ancient temple remains and scenic views. Turning the area into an off-road playground can be dangerous for both visitors and the environment,” said Bamnoli resident Santosh Jadhav.
Officials and locals have repeatedly warned that reservoir beds may appear dry but often contain moisture-rich layers beneath the surface, making them unsafe for heavy vehicles.
The viral incident serves as a reminder that even powerful off-road vehicles have limitations when faced with hidden marshland and unstable terrain.
FAQs
Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred in the drying riverbed of the Koyna reservoir near Bamnoli in Satara district, Maharashtra.
Why did the vehicles get stuck?
Although the surface appeared dry, the ground underneath contained deep mud and marshy patches that trapped the vehicles.
Which vehicles got stuck?
A Mahindra Thar SUV initially got stuck, followed by another Thar that attempted the rescue. A tractor called to help also became trapped.
How were the vehicles finally rescued?
After unsuccessful recovery attempts, a crane was brought in to pull the vehicles out of the marshy terrain.
Why are tourists visiting the Koyna reservoir area?
Falling water levels have exposed ancient temple remains and submerged village structures, attracting tourists and photographers.
Is it safe to drive on a dry reservoir bed?
Experts advise against it, as reservoir beds can hide soft mud, marshes and unstable ground beneath a dry-looking surface.
Can off-road vehicles safely navigate such terrain?
Not always. Even specialised off-road vehicles can become stuck if the ground conditions are unknown or unstable.
