Thiruvananthapuram: As summer vacation draws thousands of tourists to coastal destinations, two of Thiruvananthapuram district’s most popular seaside spots, Varkala and Azhimala, are witnessing a worrying rise in fatal accidents, while authorities are struggling to keep pace with safety demands. Recent incidents have once again highlighted the dangers. At Azhimala, a 45-year-old man died after falling into the sea while attempting a selfie from a rock, underlining the growing trend of reckless behaviour among visitors. At Varkala, a 19-year-old tourist from Odisha drowned after being caught in strong undercurrents earlier this month, and a Tamil Nadu native died after falling from the cliff near the helipad last week. Such incidents are no longer isolated. According to the Varkala Tourism Development Association (VTDA), 32 deaths were reported across beaches in and around Varkala in 2025 alone. Three more fatalities have been already recorded this year. Police data indicates that at least 18 lives were lost in 2024 due to rough seas and powerful undercurrents. Police said that many victims are tourists from other states, unfamiliar with the unpredictable sea conditions along the coast. Strong currents, sudden waves, and sharp drop-offs make several stretches of the 9km coastline, from Kappil to Aliyirakkam, particularly dangerous. Despite repeated warnings, visitors frequently enter prohibited areas or disregard rough sea alerts. The rising trend of selfie-taking on cliffs and rocks has added another layer of risk, even as authorities warn that Varkala’s cliffs are prone to erosion and collapse. “Domestic tourists are increasingly ignoring rough sea warnings. Three deaths have been reported this year alone, including one from a cliff fall,” said Sanjay Sahadevan, patron of VTDA. A critical factor behind the rising toll is the acute shortage of lifeguards. Only 12 are currently deployed across Varkala, against a required strength of at least 18. Earlier, around 24 personnel were stationed along the coast, but the number has been halved over the years due to budget constraints. The shortage has left several stretches unguarded, forcing limited staff to monitor large crowds spread across multiple locations. Basic safety infrastructure also remains inadequate. Many areas lack proper warning signboards, barriers, watchtowers, and lighting. Lifeguards have flagged the absence of modern rescue equipment, hampering emergency response. At Azhimala, local authorities have begun taking corrective measures following three deaths in the past three months. The Kottukal panchayat plans to convene a multi-departmental meeting. Proposals put forward include additional police aid posts near rocky areas and more warning boards. “Azhimala has also become a major spiritual destination. Over 200 people visit daily the Siva temple. A permanent safety mechanism is essential,” said panchayat vice-president Punnakulam Binu. A tourism department official said a comprehensive safety plan is being finalized, covering additional lifeguard deployment, increased patrols, and clearer signage to prevent tourists from entering hazardous zones.
