Daijiworld Media Network – Karwar/Bhatkal
Karwar/Bhatkal, May 24: The death toll in the devastating drowning tragedy near Alvekodi in Uttara Kannada district has risen to 10, while three persons are still feared missing and intensive search operations continue.
The tragedy occurred at the Tattihakkalu Kalinatti stream near Shirali when a group of 13 to 14 family members and relatives had reportedly gone to the coastal area on a holiday outing and ventured into the river waters near the sea to collect shellfish.
According to reports, the victims were moving through the water while holding each other’s hands when they were swept away by strong currents.
Police said heavy rain late on Saturday night had increased the river’s flow, while rough sea conditions and high waves caused a sudden rise in the water level, leading to the tragedy.
“Those who had entered the river to collect shells were moving while holding each other’s hands.
Due to heavy rain, the water current had become strong. In addition, the sea waves caused the water level to rise, leading to the suspected drowning,” Bhatkal police station police said.
Local residents rescued three persons from the waters, while several others were swept away. Two survivors, identified as Nagarathna and Mahadevi, were shifted to Kasturba Medical College Manipal for treatment. Others who fell ill are undergoing treatment at the Bhatkal Government Hospital.
The deceased have been identified as Lakshmi Mahadev Naik (42) of Padushirali Bengre, Umesh Naik (30) of Sharadahole, Lakshmi Naik (30), Lakshmi Annappa Naik (60), Lakshmi Shivaram Naik (49), Jyothi Nagappa Naik (34), Malathi Naik (38), and Mastamma Naik. Authorities later confirmed that the death toll had risen to 10, though the identities of two more victims are yet to be officially confirmed.
All the bodies were recovered at Alvekodi. Six bodies were shifted to the Bhatkal Government Hospital, while two were taken to RNS Hospital.
Police and revenue department officials have camped at the spot and are continuing intensive search operations for the missing persons. Heart-rending scenes were witnessed as grieving relatives wailed inconsolably after losing multiple members of the same family in the tragedy.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, chief minister Siddaramaiah announced compensation of Rs 5 lac each for the families of those who lost their lives.
“I am deeply pained to hear the tragic news that eight members of the same family drowned while collecting shellfish near Tattehakkalu beach in Bhatkal of Uttara Kannada district. I pray that the departed souls rest in peace. This is an extremely unfortunate and painful incident,” the chief minister said in a post on X.
“On humanitarian grounds, the state government will provide compensation of Rs 5 lac each to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragedy,” he added.
The chief minister also said that intensive search operations were continuing for those still missing.
“Let us all pray that the missing persons survive and reunite safely with their families,” he stated.