Kerala pontoon collapse injures 13 people, operator sued

Tourism Minister PA Mohammed Riyas said strict action would be taken against those responsible.

Trivandrum:

The Kerala police on Sunday registered a case against the private operator of the Varkala beach pontoon that capsized in heavy waves, injuring 13 people, including two children. The incident occurred on Saturday.

The police have registered an FIR against the operator of the pontoon, owned by Trichy-based Joy Water Sports, for allegedly operating it without adhering to safety protocols.

The FIR was registered under Sections 336, 337 and 338 of the Indian Penal Code for offenses related to conduct endangering the life or physical safety of a person.

Tourism Minister PA Mohammed Riyas said strict action will be taken against those responsible after considering the report submitted by the director of tourism.

“We have earlier issued instructions to remain cautious during adverse weather conditions. We will take action after considering the report of the director of tourism,” the minister said.

Meanwhile, the opposition Congress has questioned the government over the lack of precautionary measures in the operation of the bridge.

Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan asked if any study was done before installing the hundred-meter-long bridge into the sea.

Meanwhile, the Varkala Municipal Corporation said the private agency responsible for operating the bridge was responsible. The FIR stated that around 20 tourists were on the pontoon when the accident occurred.

Police said earlier that 13 people were injured in the accident, and the bridge’s handrails were also broken due to the impact of waves.

Officials said Saturday that the pontoon was not normally open to the public due to high tide due to severe weather conditions.

However, officials said it was not closed.

Police said that because those standing on the pontoon were wearing life jackets, they could be brought back to shore quickly without causing casualties.

The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)