Daijiworld Media Network – Bhatkal

Bhatkal, May 24: In a heart-rending tragedy, eight members of a family drowned after entering the waters to collect shells near Alvekodi in Bhatkal on Sunday. Three more persons are feared missing, and an intensive search operation is under way.

The incident occurred at the Tattihakkalu Kalinatti stream near Shirali, where a group of 13 family members had reportedly gone on a holiday outing to the Alvekodi coastal area.

According to reports, some members of the family entered the river near the sea to collect shells when they were swept away by strong currents. The victims were reportedly moving while holding each other’s hands when the tragedy struck.

The deceased have been identified as Lakshmi Mahadev Naik (42) of Padushirali Bengre, Umesh Naik (30) of Sharadahole, Lakshmi Naik (30), Lakshmi Annappa Naik (60), Lakshmi Shivaram Naik (49), Jyothi Nagappa Naik (34), Malathi Naik (38), and Mastamma Naik.

All the bodies were recovered at Alvekodi. Of the eight deceased, six bodies were shifted to the Bhatkal Government Hospital, while the remaining two were taken to RNS Hospital.

According to Bhatkal police station police, heavy rain late on Saturday night had increased the river’s flow, while rough sea conditions and high waves are suspected to have caused a sudden rise in the water level.

“Those who had entered the river to collect shells were moving while holding each other’s hands. Due to heavy rain, the water current had become strong. In addition, the sea waves caused the water level to rise, leading to the suspected drowning,” police said.

Two persons, identified as Nagarathna and Mahadevi, escaped from the waters and were shifted to Kasturba Medical College Manipal for treatment.

Police and revenue department officials have camped at the spot and are continuing search operations amid fears that three more persons may still be missing. Relatives of the victims were seen wailing inconsolably after losing eight members of the same family in the tragedy.