Dharmadom: The authorities have been urged to arrange safety measures on the shores of the river near the Moithu bridge at Dharmadom in the Thalassery - Mahe bypass. Visitors coming from other places often swim and wash clothes at this part of the river. It is not safe to get into the water here as the depth was increased for boat services as part of the inland waterways transportation.

Local resident and Congress Mandalam president P T Sanal Kumar who noticed a 20-member Ayyappa pilgrim group, including children, from Thirupathi, Andhra Pradesh getting into the deeper part of the river had dissuaded them the other day. He also arranged facilities for the group to take showers at various houses in the area.

People say that visitors who come from other places often get into the deep waters unaware of its dangers. So, they have been urging the authorities to at least install warning boards here. Pilgrims from other states would rest and cook underneath the bridge on the banks of the river when the Sabarimala season begins.

So, the people of the locality have been urging the authorities to take necessary steps to ensure the safety of those who step into the water for bathing or washing clothes.