Ankola/Thrissur: Even as search operations for Arjun, the Malayali lorry driver who is believed to be trapped under soil following the landslide in Shiroor, have almost been halted with the NDRF and Navy teams leaving the site, Kerala has sent a technical team to Ankola to check the feasibility of a dredger in recovering his vehicle.

The Thrissur-based team has left for Ankola for technical inspection before transporting a dredger from there to Shiroor. An operator of the dredger and an official from the Agriculture Department are in the team. After reaching there and inspecting the site, a final decision will be made whether to go for the dredger or not.

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The duo will check whether it can be used in the strong currents of the Gangavali River, where signals similar to those of Arjun’s lorry were detected. The flow and water level of the river have decreased after a long wait, and the rain has stopped. However, it is still not possible to dive into the river and conduct an inspection.

A dredger is a device that scoops out mud from the riverbed. However, if the flow is not favourable, it cannot be used even if it is delivered to Shiroor.

Karnataka had taken the stance that the dredger should be brought only after confirming its usability. On the other hand, Kerala's stand is that the dredger could be delivered within 24 hours if permission is granted. Meanwhile, steps are in progress to make the national highway passable.

Meanwhile, it has been officially informed that the Navy will continue rescue operations. The Karnataka Government has asked the Navy to stay back till the water current recedes in Gangavali River. The Navy is advised to continue until the situation is ready to dive.