An Indian-origin student of University of Pittsburgh, US, Sudiksha Konanki, who went missing from the country’s eastern coast after a walk on the beach on March 6, is believed to have died by drowning.

“The 20-year-old Konanki, a citizen of India, is a permanent resident of the United States and was reported to be vacationing with five female college friends at a resort in Punta Cana,” said Lake County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) Police.

“The ongoing investigation includes wide-ranging search efforts, along with a review of surveillance video and telephone records. Interviews are also continuing with anyone who may have seen or been with Konanki before she went missing. The LCSO has filed for a Yellow Notice (worldwide police alert for a missing person) to be issued by INTERPOL,” said the police.

An American news channel reported that Konanki is believed to have drowned in the ocean.

Amidst the speculation of her drowning, Konanki’s family have urged the authorities to consider alternative explanations for her disappearance, including abduction, as per reports.

Her father, Subbarayudu Konanki, has raised questions about the lack of her body washing ashore if she had drowned, suggest reports.