A tragic incident in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, has reportedly resulted in the drowning of eight individuals from a single family while they were collecting freshwater mussels in the Venkatapura river. Initial reports indicate that the group, consisting of fourteen people, was engaged in gathering mussel shells when the accident occurred. Among the presumed deceased are seven women and one man.

Authorities revealed that three individuals were rescued from the river and have since been transported to a government hospital for treatment. Furthermore, two injured women were later referred to a facility in Udupi for further medical attention. The victims are believed to hail from Saradahole, located in Shirali.

Rescue Operations Commence

The news of the incident spread alarmingly, prompting both local residents and law enforcement agencies to initiate rescue operations promptly. Officers from the Bhatkal Rural Police Station arrived at the scene to oversee the search efforts aimed at locating those still unaccounted for. Currently, three individuals remain missing, comprising two women and one man.

The missing persons have been identified as Madeva Jattappa Naik, age fifty-two; Manjamma Gotta Naik, age fifty; and Nagarathna Parameshwar Naik, age forty. The authorities are working tirelessly to trace their whereabouts, with search operations continuing in the river area.

Local residents, along with police personnel, are utilising boats and other resources to facilitate the rescue missions. The situation remains dire as families await news about their loved ones.

Identification of the Victims

The full list of deceased also includes Jyothi Nagappa Naik, age thirty-seven, and Malathi Jattappa Naik, age thirty-eight. All identified individuals reportedly resided in the Padushirali Saradahole region of Bhatkal. Meanwhile, the two injured women receiving treatment have been identified as Nagarathna Eshwar Naik and Madevi Naik.

The recovery process and identification of victims are crucial aspects as families seek closure during this difficult time. Support services are being mobilised to assist the bereaved and those requiring medical attention.

Government Response and Next Steps

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has expressed his sorrow regarding the unfortunate event. He stated that the immediate focus of the government is on rescue efforts, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. “The Karwar incident should not have happened, but unfortunately it has occurred,” Shivakumar remarked.

He also noted that an official, Mankal Vaidya, has been dispatched to oversee the situation in Karwar. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasised that saving lives is the primary concern at this moment, hinting that compensation will be considered once the immediate crisis is managed.

Further information is awaited as rescue teams persist in their search operations within the river area. The community remains hopeful for a positive outcome as efforts continue unabated.

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