WITH continuous rain pushing up water levels in Bhopal’s lakes and dams, police have stepped up vigilance at popular picnic spots and warned residents against entering restricted areas. Kerwa, Kolar and Hathai Kheda dams, along with Chhota Talab and Bada Talab, are seeing increased water levels, attracting young people and families despite slippery surfaces, strong currents and the risk of sudden changes in water depth. Selfies, reels raise risk THE pleasant weather has drawn groups to the city’s water bodies for picnics, photographs and social media reels. Police said some visitors enter barricaded areas or move close to the water despite warning boards. During rain, slippery rocks and muddy surfaces increase the chances of losing balance and falling into deep water. Authorities have restricted entry to several locations considered dangerous because of rising water levels. Police said anyone found entering prohibited areas despite barricading and warning signs could face action. The risks have repeatedly turned fatal.

 

On May 18, 2025, Rajesh Jain drowned in Bada Talab near Sheetaldas Ki Bagiya after entering the water despite his wife’s warning. He had reportedly been learning to swim. In May 2025, ITI student Aman Vishwakarma from Ayodhya Nagar drowned at Kerwa Dam in Ratibad after jumping into deep water despite not knowing how to swim. His friends reportedly watched helplessly as he went under water. In June 2026, Jatkhedi resident Angad died after slipping into deep water at Kaliyasot Dam while out with three friends to take photographs. The group reportedly entered a restricted area despite warning boards about deep water and crocodiles. In July 2025, Venkatesh Vishal Naidu drowned while bathing at Kaliyasot Dam during a picnic with friends. Police said he struggled in the water before drowning, while his friends recorded the incident. Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar has appealed to residents not to put their lives and those of their families at risk for adventure or selfies. He urged people to maintain a safe distance from water bodies when levels are rising and strictly avoid restricted areas.