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On average, 30 children under the age of five dies from drowning every day in the country, while approximately 40 children die if we consider those under the age of 18, a study has found.
The study also revealed that a majority of children who drown are found in water bodies that are close to their homes, including ponds (66%) and open water bodies (16%), which are typically located about 40 steps away from their houses.
These findings were revealed at a press conference titled "Always Stay Watchful to Prevent Child Drowning," organised by the National Alliance for Drowning Prevention (NADP) at the Dhaka Reporters Unity yesterday.
About 60% of these unexpected deaths occur between 9 am and 1 pm when mothers remain busy with family tasks. Therefore, either parents should be vigilant while visiting village homes or enjoying water activities.
Dr. Abdul Jalil Chowdhury, former Professor of Medicine at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and NADP General Secretary, stated that the relevant ministries and allied organisations have limited measures in place to prevent drowning incidents, including at popular tourist destinations such as Cox's Bazar, St Martin, and Kuakata. Every year, about 30% of visitors die by drowning at these tourist destinations, turning their joy into sorrow.
He also mentioned that approximately 87.8 lakh people travel by waterways every year across the country. People choose the river route because of its timely and comfortable transportation system. However, our current waterway management is inadequate, and accidents occur due to overcrowding. "I urge the Inland Water Transport Authority of Bangladesh to make people's journeys safer and more enjoyable," he said.
Sadrul Hasan Majumdar, convener of NADP, Sonia Parveen, mental health specialist, and Professor Dr. Robed Amin were also present at the press conference.
TDM/MI
