HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad Division administration has imposed a 60-day ban on swimming and bathing in the River Indus and its canals following a surge in drowning incidents, which have claimed over 30 lives in recent months. The ban, recommended by deputy commissioners, aims to prevent further fatalities, especially among children.
Local police have been instructed to enforce the ban, though past efforts to curb swimming in these water bodies have been ineffective. The rising temperatures and frequent power outages by the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) have pushed residents, particularly youth, to seek relief in the rivers and canals, leading to fatal accidents.
Key locations like Kotri Barrage, Al-Manzar Jamshoro, and various canals around Hyderabad became popular recreational spots, especially on weekends. However, the lack of safety measures, including lifeguards or designated swimming areas, has resulted in a tragic rise in drownings. Officials estimate that over 30 drowning fatalities have occurred in the past few months, with the toll possibly higher in rural districts.
