Tragic Drowning Incident Involving Three Students at Azhiyar Dam

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Tragic Drowning Incident Involving Three Students at Azhiyar Dam

Synopsis

A tragic incident occurred near Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, where three college students from Chennai drowned while swimming in the stream at Azhiyar Dam. Despite warnings, they entered a restricted area, leading to this heartbreaking loss.

Key Takeaways

  • Three college students drowned at Azhiyar Dam.
  • They were part of a tour from Savitha College of Physiotherapy.
  • Warnings against swimming were ignored.
  • Local authorities launched a search operation.
  • Residents urged for stricter safety measures.

Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), April 25 (NationPress) In a tragic event near Pollachi in Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore district, three college students from Chennai drowned while swimming in the stream adjacent to the Azhiyar Dam, officials reported on Friday.

The deceased -- Anro Jerid, 21, Tharun, and Raven -- were among a group of 25 students from Savitha College of Physiotherapy in Poonamallee, Chennai. This group had traveled to the Azhiyar Dam area for a tour when the incident occurred.

According to police and eyewitness statements, several students entered the lower part of the dam for a swim, despite clear warnings and signs prohibiting such behavior.

While swimming, Anro Jerid encountered difficulties in the water. In a desperate effort to rescue him, his friends Tharun and Raven jumped in -- but the current proved too strong, and all three drowned.

Local residents, who saw the event unfold, promptly notified authorities. Fire and rescue teams, aided by locals, initiated a search operation.

After an intense search, the bodies of the three students were recovered, but unfortunately, all had already perished.

The remains were sent for post-mortem examinations to the Government Hospitals in Pollachi and Vettaikaranpudur.

The Azhiyar police have filed a case and are looking into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

Officials stated that initial investigations suggest the students ventured into a restricted area where swimming is strictly prohibited due to the water's depth and unpredictable conditions.

Residents expressed profound grief over the tragedy and highlighted that such incidents keep happening because tourists often disregard safety regulations and warnings. They urged local authorities to enhance enforcement around the dam area to avert further fatalities.

The Azhiyar Dam, part of the Parambikulam-Aliyar basin, is a favored tourist destination in Pollachi. However, these waters are also recognized for their depth and potential hazards.