Authorities in Ernakulam district are planning new safety measures at rivers, ponds, beaches, and other water bodies following concerns over increasing drowning incidents in the district. The initiative is being coordinated by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to reduce accidents and improve public awareness.
Officials reported that over 300 drowning deaths were recorded in the district between 2023 and 2025, with an average of about 100 incidents each year. Many of these cases occurred in ponds and rivers where people frequently go for bathing or swimming, and children were among the most affected groups.
To prevent further tragedies, the DDMA has directed local authorities to identify high-risk water bodies and drowning hotspots across the district. Safety measures will include installing warning signboards, building watchtowers at beaches such as Puthuvype, and deploying volunteers or lifeguards during busy periods.
Authorities also emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns to educate people about water safety, especially during the summer months when many residents visit rivers and beaches to escape the heat. Parents and teachers have been encouraged to warn children about the dangers of swimming in unfamiliar or deep water areas.
Officials believe that these preventive steps, along with better monitoring and rescue preparedness, will help reduce drowning incidents and improve overall safety at water bodies across Ernakulam district.
News as reported
