Shirur: The search for Arjun, a native of Kozhikode, who went missing in a landslide in Karnataka, finally resumed on Tuesday. The team led by underwater search and recovery expert Eshwar Malpe commenced a search in the Gangavali River.

Meanwhile, Eshwar Malpe had recovered a part of the vehicle from the river. It is suspected that it is that of Arjun's missing lorry. The team will resume operation on Wednesday. 

Initially, the Navy was set to lead the search, including a radar inspection of the river. However, Eshwar Malpe’s team took charge of the inspection on Tuesday evening instead.

Arjun’s wife and sister expressed hope for his recovery and are counting on the district administration to support the search efforts. They noted that the river’s reduced flow and lower water levels are favourable conditions for the search. Currently, the river flow has slowed to two knots, enhancing the prospects for a successful recovery.

Earlier, the Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to his counterpart in Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, requesting that his government continue the rescue operations to find Arjun.

In the letter, Vijayan said his government appreciates the efforts taken by the teams engaged in the search-and-rescue operations to find the missing person. There have been reports that search operations have been stopped, he said, adding, "I earnestly urge you to give directions to continue the rescue operations till they yield positive results."

CM Vijayan also requested that the operations be continued with augmented strength and using all needed equipment.