A tragic incident at a premier agricultural research institute near Pune has claimed two lives. A young student and a senior scientist drowned in a pond on the campus of the National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management (NIASM) in Malegaon, Baramati, on Friday.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The Malegaon police have identified the victims as 22-year-old student Shreyas Hariprasad K Subramani, a native of Dindigul in Tamil Nadu, and 45-year-old scientist Gopal Krishnan B, who was originally from Malegaon. According to preliminary police reports, the sequence of events began when Shreyas approached the pond to collect water samples. This task was part of his practical examination requirements at the institute.
Investigators stated that Shreyas accidentally fell into the water while engaged in this academic activity. Upon witnessing the student in distress, scientist Gopal Krishnan immediately attempted a rescue. He waded into the pond in an effort to save Shreyas. Tragically, during this brave attempt, Krishnan also slipped and fell into the water, leading to both individuals being in peril.
Rescue Efforts and Aftermath
Police and institute personnel were alerted and rushed to the scene. They managed to rescue both men from the pond. Both victims were swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. Despite the best efforts of the rescuers and medical staff, both Shreyas Hariprasad and Gopal Krishnan were pronounced dead upon arrival at the healthcare facility.
The local Malegaon police have registered a case and are conducting a thorough investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding the Pune drowning incident. The event has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of the National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, an institution dedicated to research under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Community in Mourning
This devastating accident highlights the unforeseen dangers that can be present even in academic and research settings. The institute has lost a promising young scholar and an experienced scientist in one fell swoop. The incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols around water bodies within institutional premises.
The Baramati news of this double tragedy has resonated widely, drawing attention to the risks faced by researchers and students in field conditions. The families of both the deceased, one from Tamil Nadu and the other from Maharashtra, are receiving support from the institute authorities as they cope with this immense loss.
