Rayagada: Panic gripped locals in Rayagada on Sunday when a 25‑year‑old youth, identified as Til Kashi of Kumbar Sahi in Mathura Nagar, climbed a 160‑foot Jio mobile tower while intoxicated and threatened to end his life.
Witnesses immediately alerted the fire department, prompting a swift rescue operation.
Firefighters and police officers, including Kalpana Behera and SI Sanjay Pattnaik, negotiated with the youth for nearly an hour before safely bringing him down.
According to locals, Til had attempted a similar act the previous day but was stopped by residents.
His father later confirmed that he struggles with alcohol addiction and emotional distress.
The incident drew a large crowd of onlookers, highlighting concerns over substance abuse and mental health challenges among youth in the region.
Authorities took him to the police station for questioning and further counselling.
