Spate of drownings in ASR district sparks summer safety alert

Visakhapatnam: A spate of drowning incidents in Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district has raised alarm over the dangers posed by local water bodies during summer. Most victims were youngsters unfamiliar with swimming. The district administration has issued directives to all departments to step up preventive measures.On April 9, three girls drowned at a waterfall in Hukumpeta mandal. Just days later, three boys under 12 years lost their lives while playing in the Matysagedda River in Pedabayalu mandal. With rising temperatures and summer vacations ahead, officials expect more visitors — especially children and youth — at waterfalls, rivers, and streams.District collector T Nishanthi has directed revenue and police departments to identify high-risk water bodies, flag dangerous locations, and install warning signboards and pictorial caution displays. Sariya Waterfalls, about 70 km from Vizag, has emerged as the most hazardous site, claiming over 40 lives in the past decade.To build awareness, schools across the district will sensitise students on water safety, while parent-teacher meetings will highlight risks before the vacation period. Police are planning patrols at high-risk sites, particularly on weekends and holidays, and may introduce breathalyzer tests at popular waterfalls to prevent visitors under the influence of alcohol from entering water bodies.Authorities believe these combined measures — signage, awareness drives, patrols, and technology — will help curb drowning deaths and make ASR's natural attractions safer for visitors.