Mandya DC Orders Enhanced Safety at Balamuri After Drowning Incidents
In response to recurring drowning incidents at the Balamuri tourist spot in Srirangapatna taluk, Mandya Deputy Commissioner Kumara has directed officials to implement strict safety measures along the Cauvery riverbanks. The directive was issued during a meeting held at the DC's office to discuss precautionary strategies.
Strict Safety Protocols and Monitoring
Kumara instructed officials from the police department, tourism department, and Cauvery Neeravari Nigama Limited to enforce safety rules and enhance surveillance in the area. He emphasized that tourists and the public must adhere to safety guidelines and refrain from entering the river or swimming in dangerous stretches at Balamuri and nearby locations. The administration has also banned the use of unsafe coracles and traditional rafts in risky zones.
Special Committee Formed
To improve coordination among departments, a special committee has been constituted, comprising representatives from the tourism department, Cauvery Neeravari Nigama Limited, the tahsildar's office, and the police department. The committee will oversee the implementation of safety measures.
Awareness and Warning Systems
Noting that many visitors lose their lives due to lack of awareness about the river's depth, strong currents, and whirlpools, Kumara directed officials to install large warning and information boards at vulnerable locations along the riverbanks. He also called for the deployment of home guards to guide tourists and prevent them from venturing into unsafe areas.
Surveillance and Alerts
The DC further directed authorities to install CCTV cameras for continuous monitoring and use loudspeakers to regularly alert tourists about safety precautions and restricted areas. He appealed to local farmers and residents to cooperate with the administration by immediately informing police if they observe tourists entering deep or dangerous stretches of the river.
Police and Home Guard Deployment
Superintendent of Police Shobharani stated that home guard personnel would be stationed along the riverbanks to caution visitors, and that police would maintain continuous surveillance from Balamuri onwards to prevent mishaps. These measures aim to reduce the risk of drowning and ensure a safer environment for tourists.
