Mandya, June 1 -- 70 lives lost in 11 years; ban fails to keep tourists away

Seeking respite from the scorching summer heat, tourists often flock to riverside destinations. But in Srirangapatna taluk, the popular Cauvery River spots of Balamuri and Edamuri have increasingly turned into death traps.

While the cool waters offer a welcome escape, the excitement of river play has repeatedly ended in tragedy.

Official records paint a grim picture. Over the past 11 years, 70 people have lost their lives at Balamuri and Edamuri, with 66 cases formally registered.

The highest number of deaths was recorded in 2019, when 13 people drowned. The toll stood at 10 in 2023 and 11 each in 2024 and 2025. In the first five months of 2026 alone, five mo...