Sambalpur: World Drowning Prevention Day; 120 Deaths in 2 Years in Sambalpur
Every year, more than 10 lives are lost at the Mahanadi Ghat
Awareness is the only way for protection: Fire Officer
Rising Toll at Mahanadi Ghats
Sambalpur: The Mahanadi River, the lifeline of Sambalpur, has been claiming lives every year. Carelessness often leads to tragic drownings as people bathe or venture into hazardous areas of the river. Despite the district administration’s lack of comprehensive safety measures and awareness campaigns, drowning deaths continue to outnumber those caused by other natural disasters.
Over the last two years, approximately 120 people have drowned, the majority of which occurred in the Mahanadi River. In 2021, 48 people drowned, followed by 67 in 2022. In 2023, 49 people drowned. Since the start of the monsoon this year, 13 more people have drowned, and the number is expected to rise. Regular drownings occur at Power Canal Siphon, Marwadipada Ghat, Chaunrpur Power Canal, and Badabazar Ghat, claiming over 20 lives annually. The primary cause is a lack of awareness.
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Causes and Concerns
According to the Fire Officer, the increase in drowning deaths in Sambalpur is attributed to a lack of awareness and reckless behavior during water activities. Many students from educational institutions in Burla, despite being unaware of the dangers, risk their lives by bathing in the river. In rural areas, drownings in ponds are common, especially during festivals like Holi.
Alcohol consumption also contributes to drowning incidents. Despite safety measures at ghats and warning signs at dangerous locations such as the siphon, many people continue to enter these areas, resulting in fatalities.
Global Issue and Awareness
Drowning is a serious problem not only in Sambalpur but worldwide. To address this, July 25th is designated as ‘World Drowning Prevention Day’ to raise awareness and implement prevention strategies. Every year, approximately 236,000 people die from drowning around the world, with a higher incidence among those aged 1 to 24.
Promoting swimming education, focusing on water safety, and implementing effective prevention strategies are critical in combating this issue.
