Unsafe, unregulated pools on Bhopal outskirts turn pits of death for youth

Bhopal: A large number of swimming pools operating at farmhouses, resorts and restaurants on the outskirts of Bhopal are allegedly functioning without adequate safety arrangements, raising serious concerns over drowning risks and public safety. Police officials warned that pool owners could face legal action in the event of any accident caused due to negligence.

Areas including Khajuri, Kolar, Kajlikheda, Ratibad, Gunga, Parwalia and Eintkhedi have witnessed a mushrooming of private pools being rented out for parties or operated on a membership basis. Such spots remain in demand during the wedding season. During summer, many operators reportedly charge Rs 100 to Rs 150 per hour to attract youngsters seeking relief from the scorching heat.

Police officials said many such facilities allegedly lack trained lifeguards, divers, emergency rescue equipment and proper hygiene standards. Youths and children visiting these pools remain vulnerable not only to drowning incidents but also to skin infections and other health hazards. Officials maintained that the civic body should conduct regular inspections of these spots and ensure that operators follow mandatory safety guidelines.

Cops added that reels and videos of such locations are widely circulated on social media platforms, encouraging youngsters to visit these spots in large numbers.

In the latest incident, Kajlikheda police on Monday registered a case against a farmhouse owner and manager over the drowning death of a 22-year-old youth, identified as Kunal Mahawar, earlier this month. Police investigations revealed that no lifeguard, diver or trained rescue staff was present at the spot.

Investigation officer SI Shivendra Mishra said Kunal and his friends had paid Rs 150 per person for entry into the pool.

Kajlikheda police subsequently registered a case against farmhouse owner Dost Mohammad Khan and manager Priti Manjhi under charges related to causing death by negligence and public nuisance.

Kajlikheda SHO Pallavi Pandey said notices have been issued to swimming pools, resorts, restaurants and farmhouses in the area directing operators to ensure compliance with mandatory safety norms.

In another recent incident, a 17-year-old boy, identified as Asmit Raikwar, drowned in a swimming pool in Parwalia area while celebrating a friend’s birthday on Sunday.

Parwalia SHO Harishankar Verma said required safety arrangements were allegedly missing at the pool premises. He said action against the pool owner may be initiated after completion of investigation.

Khajuri SHO Neeraj Verma termed the issue “extremely serious and sensitive” and said civic agencies should conduct regular inspections of pools operating in farmhouses and resorts.

The Madhya Pradesh Municipality Regulation of Swimming Pools Model Byelaws, 2011 provide a structured framework for pool safety and management.

Depth categories are clearly defined: the beginners’ area is 2–3 feet, safe for learners and children; shallow areas are 3–5 feet, suitable for adults; and deep areas are anything beyond 4.9 feet, which falls under the sports category and requires permission from the Sports Department in Madhya Pradesh.

Alongside depth rules, the bylaws mandate operating permits valid for twelve months, structural safety with non-toxic watertight materials, proper plumbing and electrical compliance, and premises requirements such as separate changing rooms, non-slip flooring, fencing of at least 1.2 metres, and adequate lighting. Pool keepers must maintain water quality (pH 7–8, chlorine 0.5–3 mg/l), keep daily records, and be trained in life-saving. Violations attract penalties up to Rs 5000, plus Rs 100 per day for continuing breaches, with appeals allowed under Section 403(4). These measures ensure pools remain safe, hygienic, and properly regulated for public use.