Diveagar Beach Tragedy: 8 Students Drown During Educational Tour

A picnic turned into a tragedy at Diveagar Beach in Raigad district, Maharashtra, where eight students from a science coaching class in Alandi lost their lives after being swept away by strong tides.

What Happened at Diveagar Beach?

A group of 48 people, including 42 students of Class 11 and 12 from Winners Academy, Alandi, and 6 teachers, was on an educational tour. Between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM, several students entered the water at Diveagar Beach. Due to high tide and strong underwater currents, eight students were pulled into deep water.

Also Read: Middle East Conflict Spillover: Mahanagar Gas Hikes CNG by ₹2/kg and PNG by ₹1/SCM Across Mumbai; Rising Spot RLNG Costs Hit Commuters and Kitchens

Local villagers and the rescue team of Mahakali Water Sports immediately launched a rescue operation. All eight students were pulled out and given CPR on the beach, but they could not be saved and were declared dead on the spot.

Victims Identified

The deceased students have been identified as Rajvir Vahile, Soham Bhandwalkar, Kaustubh Dond, Yash Wankhede, Kaivalya Wanjkar, Tanmay Vahile, Sumit Ahire, and Pranav Bansode. All were students of the science stream at Winners Academy.

Government Response and Investigation

Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, along with local MLAs Mahendra Dalvi and Aditi Tatkare, has expressed deep grief over the incident. The district administration is reviewing safety measures at Diveagar Beach, which is known for strong currents during evening high tides.

Also Read: Manoj Jarange Departs Antarwali for Mumbai: Fast Without Saline Amid Police Alert

Police have registered a case of accidental death (ADR) at the local police station. Investigation is underway to check whether the coaching academy had taken necessary permissions for the educational tour and whether adequate safety protocols and lifeguards were in place.

Safety Concerns at Raigad Beaches

This incident has once again raised questions about tourist safety at Konkan beaches. Despite warning boards, many tourists enter deep waters without understanding tide timings. Experts are demanding mandatory lifeguard deployment, safety briefings, and permission systems for student tours.