Shivamoga: 12 people feared drowned in Tungabhadra river during Ganesh immersion

Mangalore Today News Network

Shivamoga, September 7, 2016: Around 12 people are reportedly drowned in Tungabhadra river in Shivamogga district. The incident happened during Wednesday afternoon when a group of devotees was present at the spot for Ganesh immersion. One body of a devotee was recovered while rescue operation is underway. The incident happened around 1.30 pm in the afternoon.

According to reports, the tragedy occurred on Wednesday afternoon when a group of devotees present near the Tungabhadra river were immersing the giant Ganesh idol on the third day of festival Ganesh Chaturthi. Locals present at the spot suggest it was high-tide and the pressure of the river was uncontrollable.

Eyewitness present at the spot said that the victims were washed away by a huge wave. More than 10,000 people were present at the spot when the incident happened. Due to the tragedy the cops had cordoned the area and right now Ganesh immersion is not allowed in the river.

Following the incident, a high alert has been declared around Tungabhadra river where thousands of devotees gather every day during Ganeshutsav festival. Local Superintendent of Police, District Magistrate, Coast Guard and officials from Indian Navy had also been briefed about the situation. If the bodies of the victims are not discovered in 24 hours, then officials from coast guard will also help in the rescue effort.

The Tungabhadra river is one of the longest river in India that starts and flows through the state of Karnataka during most of its course, before flowing along the border between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and ultimately joins the Krishna River along the border of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.