A New Year celebration at Antarvedi Beach in Andhra Pradesh’s Ambedkar Konaseema district turned tragic late on Wednesday night when a sports utility vehicle plunged into the sea, claiming the life of a young man. The incident occurred near Sagara Sangamam, the confluence point where the Godavari river meets the Bay of Bengal, a location frequented by tourists and pilgrims.
According to police officials, the deceased was part of a group of youths from Kakinada, currently employed in the pharmaceutical sector in Bengaluru. The group had travelled to Antarvedi to welcome the New Year and had been staying at a nearby resort before the accident occurred.
Vehicle Loses Control Near Coastal Stretch
Police said that after celebrating the New Year at the resort, the group ventured out in their SUV along the beach around midnight. While navigating a curve near Sagara Sangamam, the vehicle reportedly went out of control and plunged into deep waters. Due to the suddenness of the incident, the driver was unable to escape from the vehicle.
The SUV was driven by a youth identified as Sridhar, who was trapped inside as the vehicle submerged. Initial assessments suggest that the depth of the water and the force of the plunge prevented any immediate rescue.
Rescue Operations and Recovery Efforts
Following information about the incident, rescue and search operations were launched early Thursday morning. Local authorities, police personnel, and rescue teams coordinated efforts to locate the submerged vehicle. With the assistance of a crane, officials successfully retrieved the SUV from the sea.
Sridhar’s body was later recovered from the driver’s seat, where he was found trapped at the steering wheel. The recovery operation drew a significant number of locals and visitors, many of whom expressed shock and grief over the incident.
Police Investigation Underway
Police officials confirmed that a case has been registered and that an investigation is underway to establish the precise sequence of events leading to the accident. Authorities are examining factors such as speed, road visibility, unfamiliar terrain, and possible negligence.
Officials stated that statements from the other members of the group would be recorded and technical aspects of the vehicle would also be reviewed as part of the investigation.
Renewed Focus on Tourist and Coastal Safety
The tragic incident has renewed public discussion on safety at coastal tourist destinations, especially during festive seasons when footfall increases significantly. Antarvedi Beach, while scenic and spiritually significant, has limited safety barriers and signage in certain stretches.
Local residents and safety experts have called for stricter regulation of vehicle movement along beaches, improved warning signs near dangerous zones, and increased police deployment during major holidays.
A Somber Reminder During Festive Season
The untimely death of a young professional during what was meant to be a celebration has cast a shadow over New Year festivities in the region. Family members and friends of the deceased have described him as a responsible individual whose life was tragically cut short.
As authorities continue their investigation, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of caution, responsible driving, and stronger safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
