This is the moment, a 40-year-old Indian scientist drowns in gushing waters while picnicking with his family and friends.

The victim identified as Somashekar from the northern Indian state of Haryana, had gone to picnic to Chunchanakatte Falls – a famous waterfall on the Cauvery River – in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka on Sunday, along with his wife, two children and a few friends.

At around 4.30 p.m., the water level suddenly increased in the river owing to a discharge from a micro hydel power station in the upstream.

Though the hydel power unit had sounded the siren and sent a warning signal but many tourists who were enjoying in the water couldn’t hear it.

They started moving out only after they started feeling the rise in water level.

However, several visitors including Somashekar were left stranded in the river.

Visuals show volunteers rescuing a female tourist from the river, using a rope.

They can be seen throwing the rope at Somashekar and trying to rescue him but before he could be pulled out, he lost his balance and was washed away.

The victim was working as a scientist at the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in Mysuru.

An eyewitness said: “Somashekar’s family members and volunteers tried very hard to save him but he lost his grip and was carried away by the strong currents.”

Fire and Emergency Service personnel conducted search operation but they couldn’t trace Somashekar’s body on Sunday.

Professional swimmers and local fishermen were also pressed in to fish out his body. Finally, his body was found on Monday morning.

Many tourists who were at the spot urged the authorities that a siren be fixed near the river to avoid such mishaps.

-livegore-