A lifeguard surveilling tourists at Varkala beach
Varkala: In the last 60 days, 40 individuals were swept away by strong water currents in Thiruvananthapuram’s Varkala beach (also known as Papanasham beach), yet lifeguards are left to fend without proper safety gear.
The number of visitors to the beach has increased significantly. Many step into the sea for playing and bathing, without any clue on the pattern of waters. Strong underwater currents are resulting in frequent mishaps.
Last Sunday, three from Madurai were swept by the waves. Similarly, on February 27 around seven were swept in four separate incidents. More often, it is the tourists from other states who fall victim to the raging waves.
The fatality is averted only because of the timely intervention of lifeguards. However, they are devoid of modern equipment and proper safety gear. Not just that, they are short-staffed.
At present, service of eight lifeguards will be available at a time. Notably, the number of lifeguards until 2012 was 15. Similarly, now lifeguards are present in three major points of the beach. Earlier, there were five major points.
All these are not just burdening the lifeguards, but also costing lives. Kappil, Aenikkal, Odayam beaches do not even have lifeguards.
The lifeguards are relying on eight-year-old rescue board and 10-year-old structure. Water scooter, speed boats, facility to deliver primary treatment, first aid box are some necessary amenities they require. However, in spite of mishaps the authorities have turned a blind eye on the matter.
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