PATHANAMTHITTA: 5247 people drowned in the state over the course of three years. Manoj Karthika, a native of Pathanamthitta received this response from the State Crime Records Bureau under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Seventy percent of these deaths resulted from falls into rivers, ponds and wells, while the remaining thirty percent were attributed to drowning.

Last year, 208 individuals drowned in Thrissur, and 203 in Kannur. In 2020, there were 48 drowning incidents in Pathanamthitta compared to 159 the following year.

Most of the victims were under the age of twenty-five, and unfamiliar rivers, ponds, and dams posed a greater risk. In February, during the Maramon Convention on the banks of the Pamba River, three students ignored warnings from organizers and local residents when they swam at a nearby pier and tragically drowned.

Fire rescue officials emphasize the importance of preventing children from entering unfamiliar rivers and water bodies when visiting relatives during vacations. Residents should promptly warn authorities if they observe strangers near water bodies. Those who cannot swim, individuals with epilepsy or those with lung diseases should refrain from entering the water. Additionally, swimming in rivers and water bodies while intoxicated is strongly discouraged.

Drowning statistics

• 2020: 1640
• 2021: 1756
• 2022: 1851

How to save a drowning person

• Place the drowning person head down.
• Press the stomach to expel any water inside.
• Administer artificial respiration if necessary.
• Transfer the person to a hospital.
• Do not obstruct the path of rescuers.
• Always wear life jackets on ferries.

Those who disregard these warnings and enter water bodies are at a significantly higher risk of danger.

--V Vinod Kumar,

Adoor Fire Station Officer