Kannur: Residents of Vaniyapparathattu in Kannur are struggling to come to terms with the drowning death of Poomarathil Joshy, an expert swimmer from the village, at Charalkadavu on the banks of the Barapole River. However, for people living near Charalkadavu, the tragedy comes as no surprise, as Joshy is the latest in a series of drowning deaths reported from the area.

Though the Barapole River appears calm and inviting, locals warn that it hides dangerous whirlpools, strong undercurrents and deep pits capable of trapping even seasoned swimmers. "Even those familiar with the river can be deceived by its changing nature," said a local resident.

While people living nearby are aware of the rocks, shifting currents and whirlpools, visitors drawn by the river's clear waters often underestimate the risks. Locals pointed out that the river changes its course during floods, frequently creating new and unpredictable whirlpools.

"At least nine people, including Joshy, have lost their lives to drowning at Charalkadavu and nearby areas over the past 10 years," a local man said.

Three years ago, two students from Ullikkallu and Vallithodu drowned at Charalkadavu. More recently, on December 24, 2024, a nine-year-old boy, Alwin, from Kottoly in Kakkad, Kannur, and his neighbour, Vincent (42), also lost their lives after falling into a deep pit at the same location.

Taking these incidents into account, Ayyankunnu panchayat president Mini Viswanathan, vice-president K C Chacko and ward members Josekunju Thadathil, Shibo Augustine, Tomy Simon and Biju Joseph visited the banks of the river to examine how safety measures could be implemented.

“We will install warning signs on the banks of the Barapole River at Charalkadavu. Other safety measures are not practical. The boards with the warnings will also display the photos of the drowning victims,” said panchayat president Mini.

A pristine area, Charalkunnu will entice any visitor with its natural beauty. The river flows gently, and the waters are crystal clear, giving no indication of the dangers lurking underwater. An expansive area on the riverbanks, extending to several acres, is uninhabited as the river has changed its course frequently.

With the nearest house from the riverbanks more than half a km away, shouts of visitors seeking help during drowning incidents would be hardly heard by the local people. Similarly, residents of the area do not take note of the visitors, who mostly come in groups. The latest victim, Joshy, had also arrived at Charalkunnu along with a group from his village.