Accidents are an unfortunate reality of life, but that does not mean precautions should be ignored. The loss of a loved one due to an accident is heartbreaking, and the pain is even more profound when the tragedy could have been prevented.
Accidental deaths by drowning, in particular, are avoidable, yet they continue to claim lives in Nagaland every year. Many of these victims are young people who, if equipped with basic swimming skills, might have been saved. Despite Nagaland’s numerous rivers, streams, and lakes, swimming is not a widely practiced skill among the general population.
The absence of proper swimming facilities and the lack of emphasis on swimming education have left many vulnerable to drowning. The solution to this issue is straightforward—serious consideration must be given to implementing swimming lessons under qualified and certified coaches.
In recent years, Mokokchung has seen a rise in the number of gyms, which is a positive step toward promoting health and fitness. Similarly, the establishment of swimming pools with professional training programs should be encouraged. Learning how to swim is not just about recreation; it is a life-saving skill that can prevent needless tragedies.
Schools and community organizations could collaborate to introduce swimming lessons as part of extracurricular activities, ensuring that children and young adults are equipped with this essential skill from an early age. Beyond safety, swimming offers multiple benefits. It is one of the best forms of physical exercise, providing a full-body workout while being gentle on the joints.
For those who are health-conscious, having access to swimming pools would provide an excellent alternative to conventional fitness routines. Additionally, promoting swimming as a sport could open avenues for competitive swimming, allowing young athletes from Nagaland to pursue professional careers in aquatics.
Furthermore, investing in swimming pools and training facilities presents an entrepreneurial opportunity. A well-managed swimming center could serve as both a safety initiative and a profitable business.
It is time for Nagaland to prioritize swimming education and infrastructure. By doing so, we can prevent future tragedies, promote health, and create new opportunities for our youth. The cost of inaction is far too high, and every effort must be made to ensure that no more lives are lost to preventable drowning accidents.