Drowning deaths: J&K Govt restricts swimming, calls for adequate supervision of water bodies

Srinagar: Unnerved by rising drowning deaths, Jammu and Kashmir disaster management department has restricted swimming at the confluence of two rivers or streams.

At least five persons including two women have drowned in Tangmarg’s Drung area in the last two days.

Ganderbal and Baramulla district administrations have already banned movement and swimming at rivers and waterfalls.

Feeling the heat, the disaster management department has come up with a list of don’ts to avoid any tragedy in the future.

“The current may be faster, with dangerous undercurrents, which is difficult even for experienced swimmers,” the disaster management department said in the advisory.

The department asked the people not to venture into the water unless a person knows swimming.

“Don’t dive into the water or push someone into the water. Don’t swim alone, especially if you are not an experienced swimmer,” the department said.

The department also suggested not to swim under bridges, dams, and water bodies that are under construction. “Never jump into higher levels into flowing water, river, or dams. Don’t exhaust yourself during swimming as it can lead to drowning,” it said.

Similarly, a rope, lifejacket, lifebuoy, or improvised flotation device should be made available for rescue operations at places where drowning incidents happen. “Enter the water where adequate supervision and rescue cover is available,” it said.

The department advised people to remain cautious of underwater hazards. “Elders should keep a constant visual contact with children when they are swimming. Learn first aid as you might save someone’s life,” it said.

Director, disaster management department, Aamir Ali told The Kashmir Monitor that they are raising awareness among the public to avoid such cases.

“We have issued an advisory and a list of steps to be followed by the swimmers as well as the public to avoid such incidents. Furthermore, the district administrations are equally taking a note of it,” he said.