Youth drowns in Digha sea after ignoring safety warning during cyclone alert

A pilgrim from Uttar Pradesh drowned in the sea near Digha on Friday, defying government advisories issued due to turbulent sea conditions caused by a deep low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. The man, identified as Sandeep Gaur, went missing while taking a sea bath near Gangasagar despite a ban on bathing imposed by local authorities.

Sandeep was part of a group of 25 to 30 pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh who had arrived for worship at the Kapil Muni temple. Before the scheduled rituals, he went into the sea, evading the watch of authorities, and was swept away by strong waves.

As soon as the incident was reported, officials from Gangasagar Coastal Police Station and the block disaster management team rushed to the spot. A speed boat was deployed along with trained divers to carry out the search operation, which continued through the day amid rough sea conditions.

Authorities had earlier issued alerts to fishermen and tourists, urging them to stay away from the sea due to the cyclonic circulation triggered by the remnants of Typhoon Vefa. Despite this, multiple violations have been reported in recent days, putting lives at risk.