In a devastating turn of events, three young individuals lost their lives within a span of just two days at Chinchoti Falls in Vasai. The incident occurred shortly after local authorities implemented strict sanctions, prohibiting revelers from entering water bodies in the region during the monsoon season. The unfortunate deaths serve as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with disregarding safety guidelines and venturing into treacherous waters.
It was about a week ago when the police banned access to water bodies in the Vasai region during the monsoon period. The decision was taken in the wake of several accidents and deaths that occurred over the years, emphasizing the need for precautionary measures to prevent further loss of life. Despite the explicit prohibition, tragedy struck at Chinchoti Falls, which is famous for its popularity as a trekking route during the rainy season.
The first incident unfolded on Friday when a group of six friends from Nalasopara embarked on a trek towards the picturesque waterfall. After a two-hour journey, they reached their destination with excitement and anticipation. Ignoring the warnings and oblivious to the inherent risks, Roshan Rathod (19) and Ravi Jha (18) ventured into the water. Tragically, they misjudged the powerful current and were swiftly carried away. Realizing the severity of the situation, their friends raised the alarm, alerting nearby picnickers to the unfolding tragedy.
Prompt action was taken by the Vasai-Virar fire brigade personnel and local residents of Chinchoti village, who rushed to the scene in a valiant effort to rescue the imperiled individuals. Despite their best efforts, Roshan Rathod and Ravi Jha could not be saved. The recovery of their lifeless bodies further underscored the perilous nature of their ill-fated decision.
The grief-stricken community was still reeling from the shock when news of another drowning emerged. A day before the aforementioned incident, 18-year-old Sumit Yadav from Vile Parle met a similar fate at Chinchoti Falls. Accompanied by four friends, he succumbed to the overpowering force of the water’s current. The Naigaon police swiftly registered a case of accidental death in both incidents and began the process of gathering statements from the survivors. According to the friends, all three victims were non-swimmers, unaware of the risks they were undertaking. Compounding the hazard, the surroundings of the waterfall feature treacherously slippery rocks, posing an additional threat to anyone attempting to navigate them.
The tragic loss of three young lives serves as a stark reminder of the vital importance of adhering to safety guidelines, particularly during the monsoon season when water bodies become considerably more hazardous. The authorities had imposed the ban on entering water bodies in the Vasai region precisely to avert such calamities. By flouting these regulations, individuals not only put their own lives at risk but also endanger the lives of those who may attempt to rescue them.
In the aftermath of these heart-wrenching incidents, it is imperative for the local authorities to reinforce the importance of adhering to safety protocols. Educating the public about the potential dangers of water bodies during the monsoon season should be a priority, highlighting the need for caution and vigilance. Furthermore, signage and warning boards should be strategically placed in and around high-risk areas to serve as constant reminders of the perils that lie within.
The loss of three vibrant lives at Chinchoti Falls serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of ignoring safety precautions. Let this serve as a somber lesson for all, prompting a collective commitment to preserving life and preventing such avoidable tragedies from recurring in the future.
