29 drowning-prone spots around waterbodies identified:Minister

The Maharashtra government has identified 29 spots around various water bodies in the state which are prone to incidents of drowning, Minister of State for Home Ranjit Patil told the Legislative Assembly today.
He was responding to the concerns raised by the Opposition parties over the recent incidents of some youths drowning in Mumbai and Nagpur while clicking selfies at waterfronts.
"The government will ensure that lifeguards and equipment as well as patrolling is provided at such locations. However, municipalities should ensure that an annual audit is conducted and the equipment is not outdated," he said.
Patil further said the government was considering a integrated plan under which various local bodies, Home department, activists and other officials concerned will have to work together to prevent recurrence of such incidents.

"The plan will include erecting the warning boards, purchase and maintenance of equipment and deployment of trained staff (at these spots). It is also necessary to carry out a periodical audit," Patil said.
He said there are 37 lifeguards on Mumbai's beaches.
"In the vulnerable season, the number is increased to 118. We are considering a consolidated plan for beaches at Chowpatty, Dadar, Juhu, Aksa, Versova and Gorai which will include a watch-tower, CCTV and lifeguards," he added.