Seven Swept Away in Tragic Incident at Karnataka’s Markonahalli Dam

Tumakuru | October 8, 2025 A day of fun turned into a tragedy in Karnataka’s Tumakuru district on Tuesday after seven people, including women and children, were swept away by strong water currents downstream of the Markonahalli Dam. The group, part of a family picnic, was caught off guard when water was suddenly released through the dam’s siphon system. According to Tumakuru Superintendent of Police Ashok K.V., around 15 people from Tumakuru had gathered near the dam for a picnic. Out of them, seven individuals entered the shallow waters for recreation when a sudden surge of water caught them by surprise. The powerful flow, triggered by a natural rise in water levels, quickly pulled them downstream. Rescue teams from the police and fire departments immediately launched a search operation. One man, identified as Nawaz, was rescued and rushed to Adichunchanagiri Hospital for treatment. Officials confirmed that two bodies have been recovered so far, while efforts continue to locate the remaining four missing persons. The search was paused late Tuesday night due to poor visibility and will resume on Wednesday morning. Authorities said that, except for Nawaz, all the missing and deceased victims are women and young girls. The recovered bodies have been sent to Adichunchanagiri Hospital for post-mortem examination and identification. Speaking to reporters, SP Ashok K.V. expressed deep sorrow over the incident and urged people to exercise caution near dams and reservoirs, especially during the post-monsoon season when sudden changes in water flow can occur. Engineers at the dam stated that the siphon system automatically released water due to a natural increase in reservoir levels. However, an inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause and timing of the discharge. Officials are also reviewing whether warning mechanisms were in place to alert visitors about potential water releases. The tragic event has cast a shadow over the region, with local residents calling for stricter safety protocols around dams. This includes better fencing, clear warning signs, and controlled visitor access to prevent similar accidents in the future. District authorities and emergency personnel remain at the site, coordinating search efforts and offering support to the victims’ families. The police said that rescue teams will continue their operations until all missing individuals are located. What began as a cheerful family outing ended in heartbreak, highlighting once again the unpredictable nature of water bodies during seasonal transitions. As investigations continue, the Markonahalli Dam tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the need for vigilance and safety awareness near water reservoirs across the state. Tragedy at Markonahalli Dam A picnic in Karnataka’s Tumakuru district ended in heartbreak when seven people, including women and children, were swept away by strong water currents near the Markonahalli Dam. The group was enjoying their outing when water was suddenly released through the siphon system, catching them off guard. One man was rescued and is receiving treatment, while two bodies have been recovered so far. Search operations are ongoing to find the remaining missing persons. Authorities said the water release was due to a natural rise in levels, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.