Serious lapse in organizing mock drill, no timely intervention to save Binu, say locals

PATHANAMTHITTA: There was a serious lapse from the side of the authorities over the death of the youth during mock drill conducted by the disaster management authority. The reports that came in said the rescue boat has been malfunctioning. The fire force's motor boat was brought ashore after tying to a rope.

Kallooppara native Binu Soman (34) died in the accident. The locals alleged that there was no timely intervention to save the youth. Despite the presence of the NDRF and fire brigade, it took about half an hour to bring the youth out of the water.

The accident occurred near Vennikulam Komalam bridge during a mock drill to deal with natural calamities. Binu, a volunteer, developed uneasiness during the drill and was caught by the currents near Vennikulam. The National Disaster Response Force took the youth out and rushed him to the hospital, but he died in the evening.