Idukki: A young man died after his bike plunged into a gorge at Kottappara on Saturday afternoon. His friend, who was riding pillion, sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a private hospital in Thodupuzha.

The deceased has been identified as Sreejith (27), an employee of Federal Bank, Kalady branch. His friend Vishnu (28), a resident of Parakkattu House, Muppathadam, Aluva, is undergoing treatment for serious injuries.

According to reports, the duo had visited Kottappara View Point for sightseeing. The accident occurred on their way back, near the Kottappara temple curve on the Vannappuram–Mullarinkad Road, around 3 pm. The bike is believed to have lost control while descending a steep slope, skidding off the road and falling into the gorge.

Local residents and the Kaliyar police rushed to the scene and rescued the victims. Sreejith was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.