Archive · 25 Jul 2025
West Bengal: Over 25 Drowning Deaths Daily, Half Are Children
Every day in West Bengal, more than 25 people drown, and about half of them are children.
This is according to a study by the Child in Need Institute and The George Institute for Global Health.
Children between 1 and 9 years old are especially at risk, with a very high rate of drowning deaths.
The study highlighted the need for more awareness to prevent these tragedies, especially in rural areas.
The findings were shared on World Drowning Prevention Day, a day to encourage action to prevent drowning.
The actual number of deaths could be even higher because some deaths go unreported.
Survey reveals over 25 daily drowning deaths in West Bengal, with half being children.
Children aged 1-9 have a high mortality rate of 121 per lakh, the highest globally.
The Child in Need Institute (CINI) and The George Institute for Global Health conducted the survey.
West Bengal accounts for 17% of India's drowning deaths and 18% of global fatalities.
The survey was released on World Drowning Prevention Day.
- Who
- The survey was conducted by Child in Need Institute (CINI) and The George Institute for Global Health.
- What
- A survey revealed an average of 25 drowning deaths daily in West Bengal.
- When
- The survey was conducted from March to December 2024 and released on World Drowning Prevention Day.
- Where
- West Bengal, India.
- Why
- To highlight the issue of drowning deaths, particularly among children, and advocate for prevention.
Advocates for Awareness
N/A
Prevention
Advocates for Awareness
Increased public awareness and implementation of prevention strategies are necessary.
N/A
N/A
- Daily Drowning Deaths
- Over 25
- Children's Mortality Rate (1-9 years)
- 121 per lakh
- Percentage of India's Drowning Deaths in West Bengal
- Over 17%
- Global Drowning Deaths India's share
- 18%
- Survey Conducted by
- CINI & The George Institute for Global Health