K.R. Pet: Three youth from Mysuru, who had ventured into the waters in Hemavathi Canal for a swim, were drowned yesterday. 

They were part of the eight-member team of youths, who had gone to perform puja at Sri Chandagolammanavara Kshetra near Beeruvalli-Natanahalli village in the taluk.

The deceased youths have been identified as Manju (20), son of Siddaraju of Kumbarakoppal, Ravi (27), an auto driver from Mogarahalli Manti and Ravi (22) of Lokanayakanagar,  all in Mysuru.

After performing puja, the eight youths went to Hemavathi Canal that passes from Mandagere reservoir via Natanahalli for a swim. While three youths got drowned, the others swam back to safety, it is learnt.

K.R. Pet Fire Brigade personnel, led by Fire Station Officer Shivanna, who rushed to the spot, began the search operation to trace the bodies but had to suspend the operation following darkness.  Water to the Canal has been stopped to help trace and fish out the bodies, said K.R. Pet Sub-Inspector Suresh. The search operation was on, when we went to the Press this morning.