Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 26: A total of 26 expert teams of Home Guards have been deployed at the beaches of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi to ensure the safety of tourists during the rainy season.

With the sea often turbulent, tourists from distant places are drawn to swim in the sea, which can be very dangerous. In response, the District Collector has instructed the District Home Guard Department to appoint Home Guard personnel to inform and warn tourists against entering the sea.

The deployed lifeguards possess swimming skills and are trained in first aid. They are equipped with hand mics to communicate with tourists from a distance, and warning boards will be installed. Additionally, red belts with ropes and protective tubes are provided to prevent anyone from entering the turbulent areas of the beach.

Representational image

Home Guards will conduct surveillance at eight major beach locations, including Someshwar, Ullal, Tannirbhavi, Surathkal, and Sasihitlu. The personnel will work in two shifts from 7 am to 7 pm. Despite the presence of lifeguards, tourists sometimes ignore instructions, so uniformed Home Guards will help enforce regulations and take necessary precautions.

Two boats have been designated for local use in case of natural disasters. Following the District Collector's instructions, 16 expert Home Guard teams will be assigned to inform tourists about rough seas and ensure they do not venture into the water at key beaches.

Special attention has been given to the safety of tourists on Udupi beaches. A total of 10 Home Guards have been deployed at Malpe, St. Mary's Island, and two each at Kaup, Padubidri, Padukere, and Maravanthe. Additional personnel from the Coast Guard will be deployed after the first week of June for enhanced protection during the rainy season, according to the Tourism Department.