Karnataka River Tragedy: 10 Family Members Drown Near Bhatkal, Karnataka CM Announces Compensation

A devastating river incident near the Tattehakkalu coast in Bhatkal, located in Karwar district, has resulted in 10 fatalities after several members of a single family drowned while gathering shellfish.

Rescue efforts led by locals saved three individuals, while teams are still searching for one missing member.

Authorities noted that two of the deceased have not yet been identified, and more information is expected as operations continue.

Reacting to the tragedy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep sorrow and declared an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh for each victim’s family. He described the incident as extremely distressing and conveyed his sympathies to those affected.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also assured that the state government would extend all necessary assistance to support the grieving families.

Officials confirmed the identities of eight victims, including Lakshmi Madev Naik, Lakshmi Shivaram Naik, Malati Jattappa Naik, Mastamma Manjunath Naik, Lakshmi Naik, Lakshmi Annappa Naik, Jyoti Naik, and Umesh Manjunath Naik.

All of them were members of the same family residing in Sharadahole, Padushirali village near Shirali in Bhatkal taluk.

The group of 14 had entered the river to collect shellfish, a routine activity in coastal regions during periods of low water levels.

Preliminary findings suggest that some members of the group accidentally moved into a deeper stretch of the river. The situation quickly turned dangerous. The incident eventually led to the fatal outcome.

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with local police, are actively conducting search and rescue operations.

Officials indicated that efforts would become more intensive once water levels subsided further.

This incident has drawn attention to the dangers associated with shellfish collection in coastal areas.

Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious while entering rivers or shallow coastal waters.

Officials warned that sudden changes in depth can pose serious risks. They also urged people to follow safety guidelines near water bodies.

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