Kayaker topples into the river, retrieval video goes viral

AHMEDABAD: A video showing a kayak toppling into the Sabarmati, and the kayaker being rescued went viral on Wednesday. Sources said a middle-aged man was trying out the kayak in the free session during the 12pm-1pm slot on Wednesday. He nearly drowned when the kayak tipped over. Two people from the company operating the kayaking service at the riverfront came to his rescue and fished him out. Sources said the man was wearing a lifejacket or would almost certainly have drowned.
The incident took place between the rainbow-coloured Atal Bridge and Sardar Bridge.
Kayaking has been added to the attractions offered by the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Ltd (SRFDCL). The service activity was launched on April 2 and the operator announced free sessions in the 12pm-1pm slot to attract patrons.
Sources said the operator doesn't train those coming for the free session and just hands them the kayak. Sources in SRFDCL said the operator has been asked to provide basic training before letting anyone go kayaking.
Sources said the operator charges Rs 600 for 50 minutes for a single-seat kayak and Rs 1,200 for a two-seater. Sources said that despite high price, the company does not provide any training, nor do they ask if the patron has any kayaking experience.