Drownings at Balamuri prompt Mandya DC to enforce strict safety norms

Mandya: In the wake of repeated drowning incidents at the Balamuri tourist spot in Srirangapatna taluk, Mandya DC Kumara has directed officials to ensure the safety of tourists visiting the Cauvery riverbanks.At a meeting held at the DC’s office to discuss precautionary measures, Kumara instructed officials from the police department, tourism department and Cauvery Neeravari Nigama Limited to implement strict safety measures and enhance monitoring in the area.He said tourists and the public must strictly follow safety rules and refrain from entering the river or swimming in dangerous stretches at Balamuri and nearby areas. The administration has also banned the use of unsafe coracles and traditional rafts in risky zones.To improve coordination, a special committee has been formed comprising officials from the tourism department, Cauvery Neeravari Nigama Limited, the tahsildar’s office and the police department. Pointing out that many visitors lose their lives due to a lack of awareness about the river’s depth, strong currents and whirlpools, Kumara directed officials to install large warning and information boards at vulnerable locations along the riverbanks. He also called for the deployment of home guards to guide tourists and prevent them from venturing into unsafe areas.The DC further directed authorities to install CCTV cameras for continuous monitoring and use loudspeakers to regularly alert tourists about safety precautions and restricted areas. He also appealed to local farmers and residents to cooperate with the administration by immediately informing police if tourists are seen entering deep or dangerous stretches of the river.SP Shobharani said home guard personnel would be stationed along the riverbanks to caution visitors, and that police would maintain continuous surveillance from Balamuri onwards to prevent mishaps.