Rising drowning deaths haunt Mandya tourism

Mandya: What starts as a refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat is increasingly ending in heartbreak across Mandya district. Rivers, canals, lakes and backwaters that attract thousands of visitors every year are fast turning into danger zones, with drowning incidents rising at an alarming rate.As many as 1,101 people drowned in various water bodies across the district in the last seven-and-a-half years. The situation became more alarming in recent years, with 361 deaths reported in the past three years alone. Most of the victims are youngsters, including students, employees and software professionals who visit popular tourist spots during weekends and holidays.Among the most accident-prone locations are the Cauvery river stretches at Muttatti in Malavalli taluk, Balamuri and Edamuri in Srirangapatna taluk, besides the vast KRS backwaters. Though these destinations appear calm and picturesque, locals warn that strong undercurrents, sudden depth changes and hidden whirlpools make them extremely risky for visitors unfamiliar with the terrain. Muttatti alone has recorded more than 30 drowning deaths in recent years, while Balamuri has witnessed over 35 fatalities.Police officials say negligence and reckless behaviour continue to be the major reasons behind the repeated tragedies. Despite warning boards and regular patrolling, visitors often venture deep into the water for selfies, adventure activities or simply to cool off. Authorities also point out that several victims entered the water after consuming alcohol, while many did not know how to swim.Speaking to TOI, Mandya SP V J Shobharani said that despite continuous awareness efforts and police patrols, tourists frequently ignore safety instructions. "Even after repeated warnings, visitors venture deep into unfamiliar waters, resulting in tragedies," she said, adding that more intensive patrolling would be carried out in the coming days.Raghavendra HB, deputy director, tourism department, Mandya, said tourist volunteers and officials regularly caution visitors, but many refuse to cooperate. He noted that the department has proposed earmarking specific safe zones for swimming at selected tourist spots, including Balamuri, Edamuri and Muttati, and is awaiting govt approval for implementation.48 lives lostOver the last seven years, a total of 48 people have lost their precious lives in drowning incidents at the popular tourist spots of Balamuri and Edamuri combined. Similarly, Muttati has witnessed 42 fatalities during the same period, highlighting the growing safety concerns at these river-side destinations. Despite repeated incidents and warnings, tourists continue to venture into dangerous waters, often ignoring safety measures and local advisories.