<h1>Over 25 Daily Drownings Reported, Half Are Children Aged 1-9; Lack of Supervision a Key Factor</h1> A recent survey revealed that over 25 people drown daily in West Bengal, with half of the victims being children aged 1 to 9 years, resulting in more than 9,000 annual deaths. The mortality rate among children in this age group is exceptionally high. The survey, conducted by child welfare and health organizations, highlighted that most drownings occur between noon and 2 pm when caregivers are occupied with work, and that adult supervision is lacking in over 93% of cases. Rescue efforts are mostly performed by untrained family or neighbors, with only a small fraction of victims receiving CPR or medical attention. Preventive measures such as fencing water bodies and establishing child shelters during vulnerable hours have been initiated, with local authorities committed to implementing further recommendations to reduce drowning fatalities. The issue is recognized nationally as a priority under the Ministry of Health's strategy to prevent unintentional injuries.