Geologist Aneesh Mohan Cremated in Kottayam After Sikkim Landslide Tragedy

The mortal remains of Aneesh Mohan, a geologist who tragically lost his life in a landslide at a tunnel construction site in Sikkim, were cremated at his residence in Pampady, Kottayam, on Saturday evening. The funeral took place after the public paid their respects, with Kerala’s Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph attending to offer homage on behalf of the state government. The repatriation of Aneesh’s body was expedited following intervention by Kerala authorities.

Accident Occurred During Teesta Project Work

Aneesh, 43, was a senior manager and geologist working with the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). The fatal accident occurred on July 20 inside a seven-kilometre tunnel under construction in Namchi district as part of Stage IV of the Teesta Hydroelectric Project. Aneesh had been posted to Sikkim seven months ago from Haryana and was tasked with assessing the geological conditions of the site. He had been associated with NHPC for 16 years.

Journey Home: From Sikkim to Kottayam

The process of bringing Aneesh’s body back to Kerala involved significant coordination. His remains were transported by ambulance from Sikkim to Kolkata airport, where they were embalmed in a specially arranged mobile unit. From there, the body was flown to Kochi, arriving on Saturday morning. It was then taken by ambulance to his family home in Pathazhakkuzhy, accompanied by his wife Sangeetha, brothers Sanal and Bineesh, and NHPC officials.

A Life Dedicated to Science and Family

Aneesh was not only a respected geologist but also a passionate science communicator. He ran a popular YouTube channel, Scientific Malayali, which boasts over 2.75 lakh subscribers and features more than 200 videos on diverse scientific topics aimed at Malayalam-speaking audiences. Aneesh’s academic journey began at Government College, Kottayam, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Geology between 2001 and 2006. He joined NHPC in 2011 and lived in Haryana with his family before his transfer to Sikkim.

Aneesh is survived by his wife, Sangeetha, two children—Arnav and Karthyayani—and his parents, P.K. Mohanan and Amminikutty. His untimely demise has left a void in both his family and the scientific community, where he was admired for his dedication and contributions.

Source: The Hindu