A tragic incident unfolded as a man from Swansea lost his life in a kayaking accident while on a backpacking trip to Thailand. The victim, Shanghaman Gowribalan, 24, originally from Sri Lanka but raised and educated in Swansea, was described as a diligent, organised, and bright individual with a passion for exploring the world. Mr. Gowribalan, employed as an engineer, was on an adventure with a friend in southern Thailand in February 2024 when the fateful incident occurred.
Early one morning on February 11, after having breakfast, Mr. Gowribalan ventured out onto the Cheow Lan Dam, a vast artificial lake spanning 185 square kilometres within the Khao Sok National Park. Tragedy struck when his kayak capsized due to water overflow about 500 meters from the Kraisorn Raft House. His companion raised the alarm, leading to an extensive search effort over the next three days. Eventually, on February 14, Mr. Gowribalan’s lifeless body was discovered near his accommodation.
During the subsequent inquest held at Swansea Guildhall, details emerged indicating that participants were required to register before kayaking, ensuring they received necessary safety equipment such as life jackets. However, investigations revealed no records of registration for Mr. Gowribalan and his friend on the day of the incident, suggesting they had set out onto the lake without essential safety gear. A post-mortem examination revealed the presence of water and sewage in Mr. Gowribalan’s chest cavities.
The coroner’s officer, Claire Seymour, shared these findings during the inquest proceedings. The investigation outlined the series of events leading to the unfortunate accident and underscored the absence of safety measures that could have potentially averted the tragedy. Coroner Aled Gruffydd officially ruled the cause of Mr. Gowribalan’s demise as accidental drowning, extending sympathies to his bereaved family and concluding the inquiry with a finding of accidental death.
The loss of such a promising young individual highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols during outdoor activities, especially when engaging in water sports. Mr. Gowribalan’s untimely passing serves as a poignant reminder of the risks associated with recreational pursuits and the critical need for vigilance and preparedness in such endeavours.
Efforts must be made to raise awareness about safety measures and regulations governing water-based activities, ensuring that tragedies like this are averted in the future. The impact of this incident resonates deeply within the community, prompting reflection on the fragility of life and the necessity of prioritising safety above all else in adventurous pursuits.
As the community mourns the loss of a vibrant and adventurous soul, lessons must be learned from this heartbreaking incident to prevent similar tragedies from occurring. Mr. Gowribalan’s memory will endure, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the imperative to value safety and preparedness in all endeavours, particularly when exploring the beauty of nature’s wonders across the globe.