Tragedy has struck the University of Hertfordshire community as two Indian male students lost their lives in separate drowning incidents in the UK. Both students were pursuing their studies abroad when these unfortunate events occurred. One was from Mumbai, while the other hailed from Andhra Pradesh.
Drowning Incidents Involving Indian Students in the UK
Incident In Wales: Mahesh Ramesh Khandagle
The first incident involved Mahesh Ramesh Khandagle, a 23-year-old MSc student of finance and investment banking from Mumbai. He drowned during a hiking trip to Wales on March 31. Friends reported that he was using a GoPro camera near the Four Waterfalls Walk when the incident occurred.
During a video call with his mother, she cautioned him against entering the water. Despite her warnings, Khandagle stepped in to gauge the depth and was quickly swept away. His swimming skills were limited, and the remote location made it difficult to summon emergency services. Khandagle’s body was eventually recovered later that day around 5-6 PM.
- Age: 23
- University: University of Hertfordshire
- Degree: MSc in Finance and Investment Banking
- Home Town: Mumbai
- Recovery: Body found at 5-6 PM on March 31
Mahesh was the eldest son in a single-parent household. His mother, who works at the airport, is currently distraught and has applied for a visa to come to the UK and retrieve his body. The Indian National Students Association (INSA) UK has initiated a fundraiser on JustGiving to assist with repatriation costs.
Incident in Bedford: Leela Sai Reddy Mallireddy
The second victim, 24-year-old Leela Sai Reddy Mallireddy from Andhra Pradesh, was reported missing on April 3. Emergency services were alerted to a situation at the Embankment in Bedford at 10 PM.
Fast-acting fire and ambulance crews managed to rescue Mallireddy from the River Ouse. Although he initially survived and was taken to Bedford Hospital, he remained on a ventilator but ultimately passed away later. His family is now making arrangements for final rites and his organs are being donated.
- Age: 24
- University: University of Hertfordshire
- Home Town: Andhra Pradesh
- Status: Rescued from the River Ouse
- Final Status: Passed away after being on a ventilator
Support and Community Response
As both families navigate this devastating time, the student community at the University of Hertfordshire has rallied for support. INSA representatives have expressed their condolences and assistance in both cases, emphasizing the impact of these tragedies on students abroad.
El-Balad remains committed to reporting on significant events affecting the international student community. The loss of Mahesh Khandagle and Leela Sai Reddy Mallireddy is a somber reminder of the risks associated with such adventures and the importance of safety precautions.
