Bantwal: Heavy rainfall and the declaration of a school holiday led to an unusual scene at a private school in Panemangaluru on Monday, where children turned a waterlogged playground into a makeshift swimming pool, even as authorities cautioned against the dangers of playing in floodwaters.
With educational institutions remaining closed due to incessant rain, several children were seen splashing and playing in the floodwater that had submerged the school grounds. While the scenes reflected the carefree enthusiasm of the youngsters, they also highlighted the serious safety risks associated with flooded areas during the monsoon.
Authorities have warned that floodwaters can conceal open drains, sharp objects, submerged obstacles and uneven ground, making them hazardous, particularly for children.
School holiday turns into water play
The heavy rainfall that lashed Bantwal over the past few days left several areas waterlogged, including the playground of a private school in Panemangaluru.
Taking advantage of the unexpected holiday, children gathered at the campus and happily played in the accumulated rainwater, treating the flooded ground like a swimming pool.
Videos and photographs of the children enjoying the floodwater have drawn attention on social media, with many expressing concern over the potential dangers despite the seemingly harmless fun.
Authorities caution against floodwater risks
Officials have appealed to parents to prevent children from entering flooded areas, stressing that even shallow-looking water can pose serious risks.
Floodwaters often hide open drains, potholes, sharp debris, electrical hazards and slippery surfaces that may not be visible. Strong undercurrents can also develop in areas connected to overflowing streams and rivers.
Authorities said children should be kept away from waterlogged playgrounds, roads and open spaces until floodwaters recede completely.
Netravati river inundates low-lying areas
Meanwhile, the rising water level in the Netravati River has resulted in flooding in several low-lying parts of Bantwal taluk.
Floodwaters entered nearly 15 houses in Panemangaluru and Aladka Padpu, affecting families residing along the riverbanks.
The continuous rainfall over the past few days has caused the river to flow above the danger mark, leading to inundation of vulnerable areas.
Families shifted to safer locations
As a precautionary measure, the district administration evacuated residents from the affected houses and shifted them to safer locations.
Officials are closely monitoring the river level and the overall flood situation, while disaster management teams remain on alert to respond to any emergency.
Residents living in vulnerable areas have been advised to stay updated on official warnings and cooperate with authorities if evacuation becomes necessary.
Vigilance urged during monsoon
With heavy rainfall continuing across the region, officials have reiterated that floodwaters should never be treated as safe recreational spaces.
Parents have been urged to keep children indoors or away from flooded locations during school holidays, as seemingly calm water can quickly become dangerous.
Authorities said public cooperation is essential to prevent avoidable accidents while rescue and relief teams continue monitoring the flood situation across Bantwal taluk.