TNN

Koppal, Jun 23: At least 16 persons died in three incidents of coracle capsize in the Tungabhadra on Monday. 

The first incident took place near Yati Mundargi village of Koppal district, drowning six people. The other two incidents occurred between Magla and Vittalapura villages in Mundargi taluk of Gadag district. All the three coracles were struck by whirlwinds.

Tragedy struck agricultural labourers from Yati Mundargi village when their coracle capsized in the backwaters of the Tungabhadra dam. Only Pakiravva (17) could be rescued.

Divers recovered the bodies of Pavtira (2), Huligavva (50) and Yamunavva(22). They are yet to recover the bodies of Vijaylakshmi (17), Lakshmavva (18) and Pampapathy (40). Police are yet know the whereabouts of the coracle owner, who was on the boat.

In the other incidents, two coracles — carrying seven people each — capsized, drowning 10 persons. Four swam to safety. Both coracles were heading to Vittalapur from Magala.

Villagers swung into action and recovered two bodies.