DDMA flags drowning deaths in Ernakulam

Kochi: Ernakulam, with its large number of water bodies, is facing a growing concern over drowning deaths. The district reported 317 drowning deaths between 2023 and 2025. With an average of 100 drowning deaths per year, district authorities are grappling with this highly overlooked public health danger.With summer approaching, when youngsters and elders alike prefer to take a plunge in water bodies to beat the scorching heat, district disaster management authority (DDMA) decided to ask local bodies to take preventive measures in their limits.It was found that most drowning deaths took place in ponds and rivers, which were mostly used for bathing. Also, most victims were children. In Ernakulam, drowning deaths were also reported on beaches, backwaters and water-filled quarries. Officials said some drowning incidents in quarries might be suicide cases. Besides the 317 deaths, officials said many drowning deaths in wells were reported, and it was all linked to suicides."Local bodies must identify common drowning points and place warning boards there. Necessary equipment required for a scuba team has to be arranged by authorities concerned. Watchtowers can be established on beaches like Puthuvype, where frequent drowning cases have been reported. Local bodies must arrange the services of volunteers to be posted in the watchtowers, especially during peak hours," said a DDMA official.Experts in the field felt that teachers and parents had a great role to play as school summer vacation would begin soon. "Before school vacation begins, teachers can create awareness among students about the dangers lurking in water bodies and the precautions they have to take while bathing or playing in water bodies. Parents too must be careful, as the vacation season may witness more such incidents," warned Abhilash KR, district fire officer at Institute for Advanced Training in Water Rescue Service in Fort Kochi.Many ponds become deadly due to silt deposits over the years, and people ventured into them without realising the perils under the calm water, said Abhilash. "People with diseases like epilepsy, and those under medication for serious illness, should avoid venturing into water bodies. People should also heed warnings of local people, who know the nature of the waterbody well. One should be careful about one's own safety while attempting to rescue a drowning person. Otherwise, you risk your own life while attempting to rescue another person," he said.