VASCO
What began as a cheerful outing before the reopening of colleges ended in an unimaginable tragedy for Vasco on Saturday, when four youths drowned in the waters at Metawada in Kulem. The incident has left the port town in mourning, with grief hanging heavily over New Vaddem, where a family lost three sons in a single calamity.
The deceased were identified as Ramanna Parsu Madar (19), Laxman Parsu Madar (19), Hiranna Madar (21), all residents of New Vaddem, Vasco, and Vijay Sajili of Chicalim. The deaths have sent shockwaves across the region, with relatives, friends and neighbours struggling to come to terms with the devastating loss.
According to preliminary information, a group of five youths, most of them students, left Vasco by train at around 7.30 am for a picnic at Kulem before the new academic year begins on Monday. After reaching Kulem, the group proceeded towards Metawada, where they entered the river near a bridge for a bath. The outing turned fatal when four of them reportedly got trapped in deep waters and were swept away.
Rescue personnel and local authorities rushed to the spot after receiving information and launched a search operation. The bodies of all four youths were later recovered and sent for postmortem examination.
The lone survivor recounted the horrifying moments that unfolded before his eyes.
"When we reached the spot, I felt the water could be dangerous and repeatedly advised my friends not to venture into the deeper areas.
Initially, we walked away, but three of them later returned to the river and entered the water. I too stepped in, but moved back after realising the depth. Suddenly they began struggling and tried to save one another. I threw a large piece of wood towards them and desperately tried to help, but it could not reach them. I then rushed for assistance and informed the police. By the time rescue teams arrived, it was too late," he said.
The tragedy has been particularly devastating for the Madar family. Hiranna, the eldest brother, was employed as a waiter at a prominent hotel in Vasco, while twin brothers Ramanna and Laxman were pursuing their college education.
A local resident said authorities have repeatedly warned people against entering water bodies during the monsoon season.
"The panchayat and police have taken several precautions, but it is impossible to monitor every access point to the river. People often enter the water without realising the danger posed by strong currents and sudden depth. We appeal to everyone to avoid risking their lives during the monsoons," the resident said.
As the news of the deaths reached Vasco, scenes of anguish unfolded at New Vaddem and Chicalim. A picnic meant to create memories before the start of a new academic year instead left behind shattered dreams, grieving families and a town united in sorrow.
