Karnataka: Atleast 8 die in drowning incident at Bhatkal Beach; CM announces Rs 5 lakh compensation
Bengaluru, May 24
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday expressed his grief and distress over the reported deaths of eight family members on their way to collect black clams on the Tatthehakalu beach near Bhatkal in Uttara Kannada district.
CM Siddaramaiah announced the compensation of Rs 5 lakhs to the bereaved familes.
In an X post, the CM stated that a search operation is underway for others who are currently missing, urging people to pray for their safe return.
"Hearing the news that eight members of a single family, who had gone to collect black clams on the Tatthehakalu beach near Bhatkal in Uttara Kannada district, drowned in the water and lost their lives has left me deeply distressed. I pray that the departed souls find eternal peace. This is an extremely tragic and painful incident. On humanitarian grounds, the state government will provide compensation of 5 lakh rupees each to the families of those who perished in the disaster. There is also information that some others are missing in this accident, and an intensive search is underway for them. Let us all pray to God that those who are missing return alive and reunite with their loved ones," he said.
Earlier on April 29, at least seven people, including three children, were killed after a compound wall collapsed near the Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital in Bengaluru.
CM Siddaramaiah visited the site where the compound wall collapse claimed seven lives. The Chief Minister's Office verified the finality of the casualties shortly after the site inspection was completed. He also announced Rs 5 lakh as compensation for the deceased.
"Seven deaths have been confirmed by the CMO following the tragic wall collapse near the Bowring hospital premises," the statement from the Chief Minister's Office read.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Heartbreaking news. So many families devastated in one moment. Prayers for those still missing. I hope the government also focuses on prevention - warning signs, lifeguards, public awareness about rip currents and dangerous tides. Compensation is necessary but saving lives should be priority.
Arre yaar, this is so sad. Collecting black clams is a traditional livelihood for coastal families. But these beaches have sudden drop-offs and strong currents. The government must deploy beach safety patrols specially in areas where locals fish or collect seafood. My heart goes out to the family. 🙏
Another tragedy, another compensation announcement. While Rs 5 lakh is helpful, it feels like the government is only reacting after deaths happen. Why can't we have proper safety infrastructure along Karnataka's coast? The same pattern repeats - wall collapse, drowning, compensation. We need proactive steps, not reactive measures.
Since when did collecting clams become so dangerous? This is a wake-up call for coastal communities. The sea has always been unpredictable. I hope the missing ones are found safe. Also appreciate CM Siddaramaiah's prompt response but hope this leads to long-term changes in beach safety across Uttara Kannada.
Very painful to read this. 8 members of one family... matlab poora khatam. The compensation is welcome but we need better coastal safety education for local communities. Many don't understand rip currents and undertows. Government schools and panchayats should conduct awareness programs regularly.
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