Wed Sep 17 11:59:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
A 16-year-old boy, Gokulakrishnan, drowned in the Grand Anicut Canal in Thanjavur, India. He was swimming with friends when he was swept away by a strong current. His body was recovered the following day. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution around water bodies due to unpredictable currents and recent high numbers of drowning incidents in the district.
**News Article:**
**Teen Drowns in Grand Anicut Canal; Authorities Issue Water Safety Warning**
*Thanjavur, India – September 17, 2025* – Tragedy struck Manojipatti, near Thanjavur, as 16-year-old Gokulakrishnan lost his life after drowning in the Grand Anicut Canal on Tuesday evening. His body was recovered Wednesday morning, according to local police.
Gokulakrishnan was swimming with friends in the canal when a strong current reportedly pulled him into deeper water. A search and rescue operation was launched by the Fire and Rescue Services Department on Tuesday, but was unsuccessful until Wednesday morning when his body washed ashore near M. K. Moopanar Salai.
The body was identified by family members at Thanjavur Medical College Hospital.
Thanjavur District Fire and Rescue Service Officer Kumar has issued a strong warning to the public, urging extreme caution when near or in water bodies. He highlighted a concerning trend of drownings in the district, with a total of 37 people, including children and students, losing their lives in the past three months.
“Even experienced swimmers are at risk due to unpredictable water currents caused by sudden and heavy rainfall,” Officer Kumar stated. He emphasized the importance of vigilance and awareness to prevent further tragedies.
First Piper 