publish time

08/04/2024

author name Arab Times

publish time

08/04/2024

British tourist's surfing adventure ends in tragedy during India holiday.

INDIA, April 8: A British tourist met a tragic fate while enjoying the waters of Varkala Beach in Kerala, India. The incident, which occurred on Friday morning, claimed the life of the man described by police as an expert body surfer.

According to reports, the tourist, accompanied by his wife, had been staying at a beachside hotel and had arrived in Varkala the day before the fatal accident. Eyewitnesses recounted seeing the man and another woman indulging in swimming and body surfing activities throughout the morning.

Tragedy struck around 11:30 am local time when a rough wave swept the tourist, crashing him onto the dune and causing severe head and neck injuries. Despite receiving immediate first aid from vigilant lifeguards on duty, the injuries proved fatal.

A lifeguard present at the scene shared insights, stating, "The person was doing body surfing on the waves when a rough wave swept him and crashed him onto the dune. He suffered injuries on the head and neck, and we gave him first aid and took him to the hospital."

Remarkably, the beach had been serene in the preceding days, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty without incident. Authorities swiftly conducted an inquest, attributing the tragedy to the rough waves encountered during the body surfing activity.

The incident has been reported to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), the Indian High Commission, and the British High Commission in Delhi. A spokesperson from the UK Foreign Office confirmed their support for the grieving family, stating, "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in India."

As investigations continue, the unfortunate accident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of nature's forces, urging caution and vigilance, especially in coastal areas renowned for their scenic beauty.