Eight Dead After River Tragedy During Shell Collection in Karnataka
A family outing in Karnataka turned tragic after rising river waters swept away several people collecting shells, leaving eight dead while rescue teams continue search operations.
A tragic incident unfolded in Karnataka after eight people lost their lives when they were swept away by strong river currents while collecting pearl shells. Rescue teams are still searching for three people who remain missing.
The accident took place in the Venkatapur River in Bhatkal taluk of Uttara Kannada district. Fourteen members from the same family had entered the river on Sunday to collect pearl shells, a common local activity. However, the river current suddenly intensified following recent rainfall in the region, catching them off guard.
Local residents, police personnel from Bhatkal Rural station, and emergency rescue teams quickly rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident. While three individuals were rescued safely, the tragedy claimed eight lives, including seven women and one man.
The bodies of the deceased were recovered and shifted to hospitals in Bhatkal and Murudeshwar. Search operations are continuing for three missing family members as authorities and rescue teams remain on the ground.
Two women who sustained injuries in the incident were shifted to a hospital in Udupi for further treatment. Officials said rescue efforts are being carried out on a large scale to trace those still unaccounted for.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar expressed grief over the incident and extended condolences to the affected families. The Chief Minister also announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives.
