Thousands petition President for drowning prevention

On Saturday, thousands of people in New Delhi signed a petition and submitted it to President Droupadi Murmu to mark World Drowning Prevention Day.

This day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in April 2021.

The theme for this year is 'Unite to turn the tide'.

Drowning is a big problem, causing more than 300,000 deaths every year, with many of them being children under five.

Most drownings happen in rivers, lakes, wells, and swimming pools.

The Hemant Bala Advaitha Foundation (HBA) started this petition to ask for better safety measures at tourist sites, labeling of water zones, and having lifeguards.

They want the President to tell the ministries and authorities to take steps to prevent drowning.