The picturesque Kaptai Lake, a 725-square-kilometre waterbody encircling the hilly district of Rangamati, has become a death trap, leaving residents vulnerable to frequent drowning incidents.

In spite of the evident risks, Rangamati lacks any formal system for teaching swimming.

Between September and October this year, seven individuals including two children and a pregnant woman drowned in the lake. Earlier, in June, a school student also lost their life there, according to media reports.

However, the Rangamati Fire Service was unable to provide comprehensive annual data on drowning fatalities. According to its official records, only three drowning cases have been documented so far this year.

"It's deeply unfortunate that Rangamati has no initiative to promote swimming education, either institutionally or individually," said Saykat Ranjan Chowdhury, a former cricket coach.

"A swimming pool should be constructed under the District Sports Organisation to facilitate training and host competitions. In a city surrounded by lakes, swimming is not just a skill, it's a lifesaving necessity and could even nurture national-level athletes," he added.

Nevertheless, the absence of facilities has not discouraged enthusiasts like Rajesh Chakma, who believes Kaptai Lake offers ideal conditions for swimming.

"Rivers and ponds in Dhaka are unsuitable for swimming, but Kaptai Lake is perfect. To overcome our fear of water, swimming is essential. With the right initiatives, more local swimmers could emerge," he said.

Mohammad Abdul Mannan Ansari, acting assistant director of the Rangamati Fire Service and Civil Defence, said that drowning incidents are common due to a lack of swimming skills.

"Learning to swim is crucial. Many lives could be saved if people had basic swimming abilities," he said, adding that initial rescue efforts are often undertaken by locals before authorities arrive.

Harun Or Rashid, district sports officer of Rangamati , said they had planned to introduce swimming lessons but were awaiting approval.

"We have an initiative to start swimming training, but we haven't received instructions from the Bangladesh Swimming Federation yet. Hopefully, once we get them, we can start the programme," he said.

Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Habib Ullah acknowledged the need for formal training facilities.

"This is a pressing issue. At present, swimming pools in the area are privately owned by hotels and resorts, and they don't offer lessons. I intend to discuss the matter with the sports organisation to initiate a public programme," he added.