Kerala Panchayats Ban River Bathing Along Tamil Nadu Border Amid Water Shortage

Authorities said that the reduced flow has led to stagnation in several stretches, increasing the risk of contamination if large numbers of tourists enter the water.

Apart from water scarcity, safety concerns have also prompted the ban. With water levels critically low, certain stretches have become muddy and deceptively deep, posing risk of people getting trapped. Recently, two college students from Coimbatore reportedly drowned after slipping into a river in the area.

While no penalties have been imposed so far in Agali Panchayat, neighbouring Sholayur Panchayat has introduced fines for violations, especially in tourist-heavy zones.

Shibu recollected that similar restrictions were imposed during previous drought periods in 2024 as well. “With summer vacations drawing large crowds to these scenic river spots, we are urging visitors to cooperate until water levels stabilise,” Agali panchayat president added.

The move, though disappointing for tourists, is being seen as a necessary step to safeguard both public safety and essential drinking water resources along the Tamil Nadu border area.