7 swept away at Karnataka dam as picnic turns tragic, one rescued
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Photo courtesy of NDTV
Karnataka: Karnataka: Six people are reported to be swept away by strong currents downstream of the Markonahalli Dam in Karnataka on Tuesday.
Around 15 people from Tumakuru district were on holiday outing when it turned tragic, NDTV reported.
Tumakuru Superintendent of Police Ashok KV said that seven individuals of the group including women and children entered the water when ‘the dam’s siphon system suddenly released water, triggering a powerful surge’ sweeping them away.
Rescue teams from the police and fire departments were able to rescue one man identified as Nawaz, who was admitted to Adichunchanagiri Hospital for treatment.
It is reported that bodies of two victims, all women and girls except Nawaz, have been recovered.
Police said that search was called off on Tuesday due to poor visibility and will continue on Wednesday for remaining others.
Engineers at the dam attributed the accident to a natural and sudden rise in water flow.
However, an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the siphon release.
The bodies have been taken to Adichunchanagiri Hospital for post-mortem examination.