16 drowning hotspots identified in dist
The administration also stepped-up efforts to implement preventive measures and raise awareness about water safety.
According to statistics released by fire and rescue department, 352 people, including children and foreign nationals, died due to drowning in various parts of Thiruvananthapuram between 2019 and 2025. The data reveals that 315 of the victims were men, while 37 were women.
In response, the district administration, in coordination with fire and rescue department, tourism department and local self-govt institutions, initiated steps to officially declare several drowning hotspots as disaster-prone areas under the provisions of Disaster Management Act.
Sixteen locations were identified for this designation based on the frequency and severity of past incidents including Kallar, Aruvippuram and Aruvikkara Dam.
As part of the initiative, authorities launched a year-long campaign titled 'Jeevanam – A War of Vigilance for Life' aimed at educating the public on the importance of water safety and taking pre-emptive steps to avoid further loss of life. The district-level inauguration of the campaign was carried out by district collector Anu Kumari.
The newly launched campaign includes initiatives designed to strengthen safety protocols around these water bodies. Warning signs will be installed at all the designated danger zones, while targeted awareness campaigns will be conducted across schools and rural communities.
Plans are also under way to deploy trained lifeguards at all identified danger zones and to establish first-aid posts nearby to ensure an immediate response in case of emergencies.
These measures are part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce fatalities and enhance public preparedness.
In addition to awareness drives, fire and safety department will conduct live demonstrations and training sessions throughout the district. These will be held in schools and for people working near water bodies to improve their understanding of drowning prevention and rescue techniques.
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