Malkangiri, June 16: In a remarkable act of bravery and selflessness, an 80-year-old man lost his life while rescuing a woman who had come in contact with a high-voltage power line in Jaduguda village under Malkangiri Sadar police limits on Monday.

The deceased has been identified as Sambaru Madkami of Jaduguda village. According to reports, Jogini Padiami was collecting forest produce from a tree with the help of a bamboo pole when it accidentally touched an 11 kV overhead power line passing above the tree. She suffered a severe electric shock and cried out for help.

Hearing her screams, Sambaru rushed to the spot and attempted to rescue her without caring for his own safety. He successfully freed Jogini from the live wire, saving her life. However, during the rescue operation, Sambaru himself came in contact with the electric current and collapsed unconscious.

Villagers immediately shifted both Sambaru and Jogini to the District Headquarters Hospital. Doctors declared Sambaru dead on arrival, while Jogini is undergoing treatment. Hospital authorities said her condition is stable and showing signs of improvement.

The incident has cast a pall of gloom over the village. Family members of Jogini expressed deep gratitude for Sambaru’s sacrifice, stating that they would never forget the elderly man's courageous act that saved her life at the cost of his own.