The students were at the beach for a picnic when they decided to go for a swim in the sea. Unfortunately, they were swept away by strong currents. Latest reports say bodies of 10 girls and three boys have been pulled out, while four students have been rescued so far.
The tragedy took place at 4.30 pm today at Murud beach, which is near Alibag in Raigad district of Maharashtra. About 140 students, who belong to the Computer Science department of Pune’s Abeda Inamdar College, had gone for a picnic along with their teachers.
“We are shocked by this tragedy. We are making all efforts to help the students and their families with the help of the local villagers and police. A team of our trustees has already left Pune for Raigad for rendering further assistance,” college principal PA Inamdar told mediapersons.
The Coast Guard and police have launched search operations as some students are still missing. A senior police officer from Raigad police said that the students could not anticipate the sudden low tide and were dragged into the water, reports The Indian Express.
The Coast Guard is using an interceptor craft CG 117 and a Chetak helicopter in the search-and-rescue operation, while the Indian Navy has pressed a Chetak helicopter and a SeaKing aircraft.
Feature image is for representation / Twitter