Bhubaneswar, June 19: Alarmed by the rising number of drowning deaths across the state, the Odisha government has decided to introduce swimming training for students and youth in both rural and urban areas. The move comes after nearly 9,000 people lost their lives due to drowning in rivers, canals and the sea over the last five years.The decision was taken at a high-level review meeting held at Lok Seva Bhavan under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anu Garg. Director General of Fire Services Dr. Sudhanshu Sarangi and Additional Relief Commissioner Padmanabha Behera, along with senior officials, reviewed the causes of drowning incidents and discussed preventive measures.To reduce drowning-related fatalities, the government will launch an extensive public awareness campaign across the state. Authorities will identify drowning-prone black spots based on geographical conditions and the nature of water bodies. Safety measures, including installation of warning signs, railings and barricades, will be undertaken at vulnerable locations. Open wells will also be secured with protective wire mesh.As part of the initiative, at least one or two persons from every Gram Panchayat will be trained as lifeguards. Lifeguards will also be deployed at water bodies located near tourist destinations. Volunteers from NCC, Civil Defence and various youth organisations will receive training in water rescue operations and first aid.The Chief Secretary has directed the Fire Services Department, Police, State Crime Records Bureau, Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Special Relief Commissioner’s Office, Water Resources Department, Panchayati Raj Department and Drinking Water Department to jointly prepare a comprehensive action plan to strengthen drowning prevention and water safety measures across Odisha.
Odisha govt to launch swimming training, deploy lifeguards to curb drowning deaths
