Tragedy at Murudeshwar Beach: One girl dead, three missing after drowning incident

Murudeshwar: 11 December,2024 (Bhatkallys News Bureau)  A study tour turned tragic for students of Morarji Desai Residential School in Mulbagal taluk, Kolar, when a group of girls was swept away by strong waves at Murudeshwar Beach on Tuesday. One student was confirmed dead, while three others remain missing.  

The deceased has been identified as 15-year-old Shravanthi Gopalappa. The missing students, also 15, are Deeksha J, Lavanya, and Vandana. The incident occurred when a group of 46 students, accompanied by eight teachers, visited the popular tourist destination as part of their study tour.  

Eyewitnesses reported that the girls were standing near the shore when a sudden wave struck, dragging them into the waters. Rescuers recovered Shravanthi’s body, and three others were hospitalized after being rescued. However, efforts to locate the missing girls have so far been unsuccessful.  

Authorities have launched a search operation involving local police, lifeguards, and the coast guard to trace the missing students. Meanwhile, the tragic incident has raised questions about the lack of safety precautions during the tour.  

The headmistress of the school, Shashikala, along with guest lecturers, has been suspended pending an investigation. Senior officials have assured that a detailed inquiry will be conducted to determine responsibility for the mishap.  

Murudeshwar Beach, located in Uttara Kannada district, is a popular tourist spot but is known for its unpredictable tides.