Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)
Udupi, Dec 1: A tenth-grade student from Mandya, who was on a school tour to St Mary’s Island, fell seriously ill due to low blood pressure. Displaying quick thinking, the manager of a tourist boat, along with his team, rescued the student and admitted her to a hospital in time.
The student, identified as Jagadishwari from Sir Vishweshwaraiah High School in Shivalli taluk, Mandya, became unwell during the visit. Tourist boat manager Praveen Malpe and his assistant Shaanraj Kotian promptly transported her to shore using a speedboat and ensured she received immediate medical attention.
The school had organized a three-day educational tour for students. During their visit to St Mary’s Island on Saturday, Jagadishwari experienced dizziness due to the heat, began vomiting, and later collapsed as her blood pressure dropped. Praveen Malpe administered first aid on the spot and, with Shaanraj Kotian’s help, transferred her to a private hospital in Udupi via ambulance. The student has since recovered.
The medical expenses were fully borne by the tourist boat operator near the Malpe Sea Walk.
Ganesh Malpe, chief of the tourist boat operations, highlighted the lack of safety measures at St Mary’s Island. He said, “Malpe Beach and St Mary’s Island attract a large number of visitors daily, especially on weekends and holidays. Despite this, there are no adequate safety arrangements for emergencies at the island. At the very least, a Jet Ski scooter is necessary. We have brought this matter to the attention of the deputy commissioner.”