Chennai: Seventeen lives lost in just 14 months on beaches along the ECR coastline has pushed Tambaram city police to tighten beach patrols. Authorities have issued a stern warning against venturing into prohibited waters, and marked danger zones especially during rough sea conditions.According to police data, between Jan 2025 and Feb 2026, a total of 17 drowning deaths were recorded across Kanathur, Kovalam, Muttukadu, Uthandi, Reddykuppam and Nainarkuppam. Kovalam Beach accounted for four deaths, including three students and a private sector employee. Two fatalities each were reported from Blue Beach and Semmancheri Kuppam. Two tourists from Maharashtra drowned at Nainarkuppam, while two others lost lives at Uthandi. The latest incident occurred on Feb 21, when two tourists were swept away by strong waves at Kanathur .In most cases, the victims ventured into deep waters without assessing sea conditions. Officials cited strong currents, sudden drop-offs and turbulent waves as major risk factors, often worsened by a lack of caution and disregard for warning signs. Tambaram police commissioner A Amalraj cautioned the public against visiting beaches during adverse weather alerts, taking selfies near crashing waves or slippery rocks, and entering sea under the influence of alcohol.
