Alarming rise in drowning incidents: 87 schoolchildren among 289 dead this year
August 27, Colombo (LNW): Education authorities have raised concerns over the rising number of drowning incidents in Sri Lanka, reporting that 87 schoolchildren are among the 289 individuals who have died due to drowning so far this year.
Many of these fatalities occurred while individuals were swimming or bathing in unsafe natural waterways and village tanks across the country.
On Sunday alone, seven people drowned, including two mothers and three schoolchildren. Additionally, two Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) tragically lost their lives in separate drowning incidents.
Authorities have noted that some adults drowned while bathing under the influence of alcohol during trips.
In response to these alarming statistics, the Ministry of Education has issued a stern warning to school heads, parents, and senior students to exercise caution.
Schools have been advised to avoid unnecessary trips unless officially sanctioned by school authorities. Kurunegala District Senior Education Director W.M. Balasooriya highlighted these concerns during a recent meeting with school heads in the district, urging increased vigilance to prevent further tragedies.
The growing number of drowning incidents has prompted calls for more robust safety measures, awareness campaigns, and stricter supervision of outdoor activities involving children and vulnerable groups.
