Kadaba: Two youths lost their lives in a tragic drowning incident while bathing in the Kumaradhara River near Subrahmanya, a prominent pilgrimage centre, on Sunday. The deceased have been identified as Hariprasad (37) and Sujith (26), both residents of Kollamogru in Sullia taluk. The incident has cast a pall of gloom over their native place and the surrounding region.
According to police sources, the incident occurred when the two youths, along with a group of friends, visited the Kumaradhara River near Kulkunda for a bath. What was meant to be a routine outing ended in tragedy when Hariprasad and Sujith were reportedly swept away by the river’s strong currents.
Incident during river bath
Eyewitnesses said the group had entered the river to bathe, unaware of the depth and intensity of the water flow at the spot. During the bath, Hariprasad and Sujith are believed to have ventured into a deeper section of the river. Within a short time, both began struggling in the water.
Their friends attempted to rescue them but were unable to do so due to the strong current. Alarmed by the situation, they raised an alert and sought help from nearby residents and passers-by.
Search and recovery operation
Local residents and volunteers rushed to the spot and began a search operation. After sustained efforts, the bodies of both youths were retrieved from the river. The recovery was carried out with the assistance of local swimmers and those familiar with the river’s terrain.
The bodies were later shifted to a nearby government hospital for post-mortem examination. Police officials said the post-mortem was conducted as per procedure to ascertain the exact cause of death.
Victims from Sullia taluk
Both Hariprasad and Sujith were unmarried and hailed from Kollamogru village in Sullia taluk. Family members and relatives described them as responsible individuals who were closely connected to their families and community.
News of their sudden demise spread quickly in Kollamogru and nearby areas, leaving residents in deep shock. Friends and relatives gathered at the victims’ homes to console grieving family members.
Police case registered
The Subrahmanya police have registered a case in connection with the incident. Officials said the deaths appear to be accidental in nature, caused by drowning. Further investigation is underway to complete formalities and document statements from those who were present at the scene.
Police have once again cautioned the public to exercise extreme care while entering rivers, especially during this season when water levels and currents can be unpredictable.
Repeated safety warnings
The Kumaradhara River, though a popular spot for pilgrims and visitors, is known for its strong undercurrents and sudden changes in depth. Authorities and local residents have repeatedly warned visitors against bathing in unsafe stretches of the river.
Despite such warnings, incidents of drowning continue to be reported from various rivers and water bodies across the region, particularly during weekends and festive occasions when people gather in large numbers.
Officials said many victims underestimate the strength of flowing water, which can be dangerous even for those who know how to swim.
Call for awareness and precautions
Local authorities and community leaders have stressed the need for greater awareness about water safety. They have urged visitors to avoid entering rivers without proper knowledge of the terrain and to strictly follow warning signs and advisories issued by local administrations.
Suggestions have also been made to install additional warning boards and restrict access to particularly dangerous stretches of rivers to prevent such incidents in the future.
Conclusion
The drowning of Hariprasad and Sujith is a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by rivers with strong currents. As families mourn the untimely loss of two young lives, authorities and residents alike have reiterated the importance of caution, awareness and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent similar tragedies.