A total of 24 individuals have died in drowning incidents so far this year, Police said.

Police Media Spokesman Assistant Superintendent of Police F.U. Wootler stated that a special awareness and life-saving programme has now been launched targeting high-risk areas where such accidents frequently occur.

He said the initiative is aimed at strengthening preventive measures and ensuring public safety in vulnerable locations.

Wootler made these remarks while addressing a media briefing in Colombo.