A concerning increase in drowning incidents along Chennai’s East Coast Road (ECR) has led to heightened enforcement actions by the Tambaram City Police. Over the past 14 months, 17 individuals have tragically lost their lives in separate incidents along the coastline, prompting authorities to enhance patrols and reinforce safety warnings along vulnerable beach stretches. Police records indicate that from January 2025 to February 2026, fatalities occurred at various locations including Kanathur, Kovalam, Muttukadu, Uthandi, Reddykuppam, and Nainarkuppam.
Kovalam Beach has been identified as a significant hotspot, with four deaths, including three students and one private sector employee, highlighting the risks faced by young beachgoers. Other areas have also seen multiple incidents, with two drownings each at Blue Beach and Semmancheri Kuppam. Nainarkuppam reported the deaths of two tourists from Maharashtra, while Uthandi had two separate drowning cases.
The most recent tragedy occurred on February 21 at Kanathur, where two tourists were swept into the sea by strong waves during rough conditions. Investigations revealed that in most cases, victims had entered the water without assessing sea conditions or heeding warning signs. Hidden dangers such as powerful undercurrents, sudden depth changes, and turbulent wave patterns continue to pose risks along the ECR shoreline.
Authorities emphasized that risky behaviors, like swimming in restricted areas and disregarding red flags, have significantly contributed to the fatalities. Tambaram Police Commissioner A. Amalraj stressed the importance of avoiding coastal visits during adverse weather, refraining from taking selfies near dangerous waves or rocky areas, and staying away from the sea after consuming alcohol. As summer approaches and visitor numbers rise, police efforts have been intensified with increased coastal patrols, additional warning signs, and enhanced public announcements to discourage unsafe activities.
Officials underscored that beaches are not entirely safe recreational spots and urged families, tourists, and youth groups to remain vigilant and act responsibly to prevent further loss of life.
