A 53-year-old tour and travel businessman, Atul Dhandhia, tragically took his life by jumping into the Bhayandar Creek from the recently constructed Versova bridge. Earlier, he had attempted suicide at the Bandra Worli Sea Link, where a vigilant security guard prevented his entry. The body of Dhandhia remains missing and untraceable.
Dhandhia, a resident of Mira Road with a 30-year history in the tour and travel business, informed his daughter and wife of his suicidal intentions, initially planning to jump from the Bandra Worli Sea Link. Subsequently, the family witnessed his leap into the creek from the Versova bridge and promptly filed a missing complaint with the Bhayandar police.
Living with his wife and two children, Dhandhia’s emotional state prompted him to leave home without informing anyone. His distressed family, informed by his call, sought him out in an autorickshaw after he altered his plans due to restrictions at the Sea Link.
As the family traveled, the police traced Dhandhia to the newly constructed Versova bridge. Urgently informed, his wife and daughter rushed to the location but couldn’t prevent his tragic act. Despite police efforts, including divers and fishermen, the businessman’s body remains undiscovered as of Thursday.
While financially well-off, the motive behind Dhandhia’s distressing actions remains mysterious. The Bhayandar police have filed a missing complaint, and the Kashimira police are conducting an investigation, given that the incident occurred within their jurisdiction. The heartbreaking incident underscores the complexities of mental health challenges and the devastating impact on individuals and their families.
