In a heartbreaking incident, three students from a private college drowned in the sea off Kovalam beach on the outskirts of Chennai on Sunday evening. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community and educational institutions.
Details of the Deceased Students
The deceased have been identified as K Ritheshkumar Prajabathi, 20, from Jharkhand, M Mukesh, 19, from Kovilpatti, and M Noyal Jacob Melvin, 23, from Mumbai. All three were second-year BSc Nautical Science students at a college located near Kanathur, highlighting the cruel irony of their maritime studies ending in such a tragic manner at sea.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Tragedy
According to police reports, a group of five students from the college hostel visited Kovalam beach on Sunday evening for recreation. Ritheshkumar, Mukesh, and Noyal ventured into the sea waters despite not knowing how to swim, a decision that would prove fatal.
The situation turned critical when Noyal went missing in the water. Lifeguards and rescue personnel stationed on the shore immediately rushed to the spot upon noticing the emergency. They managed to locate Noyal and quickly transported him to Chengalpattu Government Hospital for medical attention. Unfortunately, doctors at the hospital declared him dead upon arrival, marking the first casualty of this tragic event.
Ongoing Search and Recovery Operations
Rescue teams worked through the night in challenging conditions to locate the remaining students. Their efforts resulted in the recovery of Ritheshkumar's body on Monday morning, which was subsequently sent to Chengalpattu Government Hospital for formal procedures. As of the latest reports, search operations continue intensively to trace Mukesh's body, with rescue personnel combing the coastal area with determination.
Police Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The Kelambakkam police have registered a case of unnatural death in response to this tragic incident. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to understand the complete circumstances surrounding the drowning. The police are examining whether adequate safety measures were in place at the beach and reviewing the sequence of events that led to the students entering the water despite their inability to swim.
This incident raises important questions about beach safety protocols, particularly in popular coastal areas frequented by tourists and students. It also highlights the need for greater awareness about water safety among young people, especially those studying in coastal regions.
The college community has been deeply affected by this tragedy, with counseling services likely being arranged for fellow students and staff members. The families of the deceased students are receiving support from college authorities and local administration during this difficult time.
