Tragic Incident in Karnataka: Eight Family Members Drown in River, CM Expresses Condolences

Bengaluru, May 24: A tragic incident has occurred in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district. Eight individuals drowned in the Netravati River while collecting shells in the Tattahakalu area of Bhatkal taluk. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep sorrow over the incident, confirming that four bodies have been recovered so far, while one person is injured. He noted that two other bodies are still missing, and rescue operations are ongoing.

The Chief Minister has directed that the affected families receive financial assistance of five lakh rupees each. He mentioned that the Minister for Fisheries, Ports, and Inland Water Transport, Mankal Vaidya, has been sent to the site to ensure immediate compensation for the victims’ families.

Siddaramaiah also stated that the state government will cover all medical expenses for the injured. In a media interaction, he clarified that the government is fully responsible for the medical costs of the injured.

He expressed his anguish on social media platform X, stating, “I am heartbroken to hear about the drowning of eight family members who went to collect black shells on the beach. I pray for the peace of the departed souls. This is an extremely tragic and painful event. On humanitarian grounds, the state government will provide five lakh rupees in compensation to each family affected by this tragedy.”

Meanwhile, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also expressed deep sorrow over the incident on social media. He described the news of eight individuals drowning in the Netravati River while shell collecting as extremely sad.

Shivakumar informed that he received updates about the incident from District In-Charge Minister Mankal Vaidya and has instructed officials to reach the site immediately. He confirmed that rescue operations have commenced and necessary measures are being taken.

The Deputy Chief Minister announced that the government will provide five lakh rupees in compensation to the families of the deceased. He also prayed for the peace of the departed souls and strength for the grieving families.