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In the summer, the Kashmir valley burns under the sun. With each passing day, the temperature increases. The air is dry, the heat is sharp, and the risk of life increases. Every year, while the mercury climbs, repeats some tragic repeats – people, especially children, drowning life by drowning in rivers, lakes, ponds and canals.
This year is no different. It can actually be worse.
Over the valley, children and teenagers run to cool water bodies. They jump into rivers or streams to avoid heat, without knowing that it can be deadly. They may think it’s fun or it will help them feel better. But many do not come back.
These rivers and ponds are not swimming pools. They are deep, sharp and cold. The surface may look cool, but the father is hiding. A strong current can pull a person down. A sudden cold shock can stop the heart. Many children do not know how to swim. Even those who can swim may not be strong enough to fight water.
Every summer, the news messages in the same sad headlines are: “The boy drowns with friends.” “The teenage girl slipped into the river, the body is found after hours.” It is in Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Pulwama – throughout Kashmir. And most of the time it can be stopped.
The increasing number of deaths due to drowning during heat wave is not just an accident. This is a clear warning. We will work – and work quickly.
We should start with a strong message: Stay away from water bodies to save life.
This does not mean that we do nothing in the summer. There are safe ways to be calm. Drink a lot of clean water. Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Relax in the shade. Wear light clothes and a hat. Place a wet cloth on the neck or head. These little things can make a big difference.
But no caution will work unless we take it significantly at home and in our mohallas. Friends ought to forestall friends from going into the water. Neighbours need to maintain an eye on every different’s children. Even one strong phrase of advice ought to shop a lifestyles.
The weather is converting. Heatwaves are getting more potent and longer. We must learn how to stay smartly. That means knowing what is secure and what isn’t always. Our rivers and lakes are stunning — however they’re now not supposed for swimming, especially during this time.
Let’s not watch for greater deaths to recognize this. Let’s act now. Let’s talk up. Let’s shield our children.
Tell anybody round you — specifically the younger ones:
Don’t go near rivers. Don’t cross close to ponds. It isn’t safe. It can take your lifestyles.
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