7 people drown in Tamil Nadu river

Seven people, including four minors, drowned in the Gedilam river in Tamil Nadu when they went to bathe in the water body, officials said. The incident happened at Kilarungunam village near Panrutty in Cuddalore district. Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi expressed grief over the incident and prayed for the departed souls. Chief Minister MK Stalin, in an official statement, condoled the deaths and announced a compensation of Rs 500,000 to each of the bereaved families. He called for steps to prevent recurrence of such incidents. One among them should be placing of warning signs near water bodies, he said. Officials concerned should impart first aid training to people, especially those staying near water bodies, to help in times of crises, he added.