Four individuals, including two women, drowned in separate incidents while swimming at Turtle Beach and Seaview, according to police and rescue officials. Despite a ban on swimming, beachgoers continue to risk their lives, leading to tragic outcomes.
Turtle Beach Tragedy
In the first incident at Turtle Beach, a family outing turned fatal when strong waves swept five members of a Liaquatabad family further into the sea. Keamari SSP Faizan Ali reported that two women and a man drowned while three other women were rescued in an unconscious state. The deceased were identified as Naureen Shera, 30, and Arshad, 40.
The survivors were rushed to Dr. Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi. Tragically, Asma Karim Bux, 40, succumbed to her injuries during treatment. The two remaining women, Sobia Bashir, 30, and Zaiban Rais, 45, are currently receiving medical care. All the victims were related, adding to the family’s grief.
Seaview Incident
At Seaview, three friends were caught by strong waves while swimming near a restaurant. SSP-South Sajid Amir Sadozai stated that while divers managed to rescue two of the swimmers, 18-year-old Danish drowned. His body was taken to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for legal formalities.
Challenges in enforcing swimming ban
Authorities face significant challenges in enforcing the swimming ban. Despite strict police action, particularly on holidays, it remains “extremely difficult” to prevent people from entering the sea. Keamari SSP Ali mentioned that although FIRs are lodged against violators, such actions often provoke public outcry over perceived injustices.
Policemen and lifeguards are stationed at the beaches, but many picnickers still venture into the rough seas, disregarding the risks. This defiance of the ban has led to repeated tragedies.
Enforcement and accountability
In response to the recent drownings, Mauripur police arrested nine individuals for swimming at French Beach and Turtle Beach, charging them under relevant laws. Karachi police chief Javed Odho has ordered departmental action against the Mauripur SHO for negligence related to the Turtle Beach drownings. He emphasised the need for strict enforcement of the swimming ban and warned of legal consequences for SHOs and DSPs if further drownings occur at Seaview, Manora, or Hawkesbay beaches.