Anakapalli police urge caution during Kartika Masam after drownings

Anakapalli district police on Sunday issued a advisory for the general public appealing to the devotees to exercise exercise extreme caution while taking holy dips in rivers, ponds and the sea during the ongoing Karthika Masam. The advisory comes after five persons drowned in two separate incidents in Varaha river in Penugollu village of the district.

Anakapalli district Superintendent of Police (SP), Tuhin Sinha, urged devotees visiting Shiva temples, riverbanks, and coastal areas for picnics and special poojas during the auspicious month, to remain vigilant and follow safety precautions to prevent any untoward incidents.

The SP said the police department had made elaborate security arrangements and initiated preventive measures at important religious and tourist destinations in view of the expected rush during Kartika Masam celebrations, directing officers of all police stations in the district to remain on high alert during the festive season.

He instructed them to intensify patrolling along coastal stretches, riverbanks and bathing ghats, erect barricades at vulnerable locations and ensure the availability of trained swimmers and volunteers to respond to emergencies.

He advised devotees not to venture into deep waters while taking holy dips in rivers, ponds and the sea, and to strictly follow warning signs and instructions issued by the police and other officials.

The SP also asked parents to keep a close watch on children at bathing ghats and crowded temple premises. Devotees should follow the instructions of police personnel, volunteers and trained swimmers deployed at vulnerable locations.

In case of an emergency or if they notice any suspicious activity, people should immediately contact the police through Dial 112 or 100, or alert the nearest police personnel.