2 tourists lost lives in boat tragedy at Malpe coast

Udupi: In a tragic incident, two tourists lost their lives and two others were critically injured after a boat capsized near the Malpe coast on Monday.

According to preliminary information, a boat with a capacity of 15–20 passengers, which had departed from the Malpe Delta Beach point, capsized around 12 noon near the Hangarkatte shipbuilding area, close to the confluence of the river and the sea. The incident occurred within the border limits of the Malpe–Kota police station jurisdiction.

The boat, owned by a private operator identified as Waveriders, was carrying 14 passengers, all of whom were tourists.

While it has been claimed by one of the survivors that life jackets were provided to all passengers, it is reported that not everyone was wearing them at the time of the mishap. This claim is yet to be officially verified, said the police.

Following the capsize, all 14 passengers were rescued and shifted to the shore with the help of other boats in the vicinity. However, four among them were reported to be in critical condition and were rushed to private hospitals for treatment, of whom two lost their lives.

The victims were identified as a group from Saraswathipuram in Mysuru, all of whom were working at a call centre. The deceased have been identified as Shankarappa (22) and Sindhu (23). Among the injured, Deesha (26) is reported to be in a very critical condition, while Dharmaraja (26) is stated to be stable. Malpe police have visited the spot. Further inquiry is underway to ascertain whether safety norms were violated and to fix responsibility.