Archive · 25 Jul 2025
Bengal’s Drowning Death Rate More Than Double National Average
Researchers found that many people in Bengal drown each year.
The drowning rate is much higher than the rest of the country.
Most deaths happen in rural areas, and many involve young children who aren't being watched closely.
Many of these children live near water, like ponds.
The study found that a lot of these deaths aren't recorded officially.
The researchers want to prevent these deaths by suggesting things like putting fences around water and training people to help.
A study indicates Bengal's drowning death rate is more than double the national average.
Over 9,000 drowning deaths occur annually in Bengal, with 25 estimated deaths daily.
86% of drowning deaths occur in rural areas, with 45% among children aged 1-9 years.
Inadequate supervision is suspected as a cause, with many incidents near open water.
Recommendations include preventative measures such as fencing and community training.
- Who
- Researchers at The George Institute for Global Health India
- What
- A study reveals a high drowning death rate in Bengal.
- When
- Findings were presented on World Drowning Prevention Day.
- Where
- Bengal, India
- Why
- To understand and address the high incidence of drowning deaths.
- Annual Drowning Deaths (Bengal)
- Over 9,000
- Estimated Daily Deaths
- 25
- Rural Deaths
- 86%
- Child Deaths (1-9 years)
- 45%
- Toddler Drowning Rate (1-4 years)
- 60 per 100,000
- National Drowning Rate (Global Burden of Disease)
- 3.86 per 100,000
- Bengal Drowning Rate (Survey Estimate)
- 9.17 per 100,000