Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
A recreational school trip turned into a devastating tragedy early Saturday morning when six students drowned and 24 others were injured while swimming at Abu Talat Beach in the Agamy district of western Alexandria. The group, affiliated with an academy specializing in aviation hospitality, had set out for what was meant to be a day of fun and relaxation only to be met with catastrophe.
The Incident Unfolds
Authorities received an emergency call reporting that several students were struggling in the water. Within minutes, police and emergency services rushed to the scene, deploying 16 fully equipped ambulances in a large-scale rescue effort. Despite their rapid response, six students could not be saved and were pronounced dead at the scene. Rescuers were able to treat three injured students on-site, while the remaining 21 were transported to local hospitals for further medical care.
According to official sources, 13 of the injured were taken to Al-Agamy Specialized Hospital, while eight others were admitted to Al-Amiriya General Hospital. All victims are currently receiving care under medical protocols designed for cases of near-drowning and asphyxiation, overseen by specialized emergency teams.
Immediate Government Response
In the wake of the tragedy, the Central Administration for Tourism and Resorts in Alexandria ordered the immediate closure of Abu Talat Beach. Red warning flags have been raised across the area, cautioning the public against entering the sea due to dangerous wave conditions and strong currents. Officials have emphasized that the beach will remain closed until conditions are deemed safe, and they are reviewing safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Ministry of Health and Population also issued a statement expressing its deep sorrow over the loss of life, extending heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, and wishing a swift recovery to the injured. Health Minister Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar reaffirmed the ministry’s full commitment to supporting the victims and their families, ensuring all necessary medical and logistical resources are available.
A Cautionary Tale
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by unmonitored or unsafe swimming conditions, especially during group excursions. The Ministry of Health urged the public to strictly adhere to beach safety guidelines, particularly when organizing large-scale trips involving young people.
Rescue operations at the site have concluded, but investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident continue. Authorities are examining whether proper safety measures were in place, including the presence of lifeguards and the condition of the sea at the time the students entered the water.
As Alexandria mourns the loss of six young lives, the tragedy at Abu Talat underscores the need for vigilance, preparedness, and respect for nature’s unpredictability even on what should have been a carefree day at the beach.
