Ten drown while collecting shellfish near Bhatkal in Karnataka's Uttara Kannada; PM announces ex-gratia
On 24 May 2026 ten people, most from one extended family, drowned when a sudden surge of water swept them away while they were collecting shellfish near Shirali in Bhatkal taluk of Uttara Kannada (Karwar) district, Karnataka.
Summary
Ten people died and one went missing on 24 May 2026 after a group collecting shellfish was swept away by a sudden rise in water near Shirali village in Bhatkal taluk of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka. Police said rain had increased the force of the current. Three people were rescued and taken to hospital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced ₹5 lakh compensation for the family of each victim.
Key facts
- Date
- 24 May 2026
- Place
- Near Shirali, Bhatkal taluk, Uttara Kannada (Karwar) district, Karnataka
- Toll on 24 May
- 10 dead, 1 missing; 3 rescued
- Cause
- Swept away by sudden surge while collecting shellfish after rain
- PM ex-gratia (PMNRF)
- ₹2 lakh per deceased; ₹50,000 per injured
- State compensation
- ₹5 lakh per deceased (CM Siddaramaiah)
Practice MCQs 2 questions
What ex-gratia did the Prime Minister announce from the PMNRF for the next of kin of each person who died in the Karwar district mishap on 24 May 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — ₹2 lakh
PM Modi announced ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured; the Karnataka CM announced ₹5 lakh separately.
The drowning of shellfish collectors on 24 May 2026 took place near Shirali in which taluk of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Bhatkal
The incident took place near Shirali in Bhatkal taluk of Uttara Kannada district.