Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema District Collector R. Mahesh Kumar had a lucky escape on January 2nd. While riding a kayak alone in an irrigation canal at Pulidindi village, his small boat overturned twice during a trial run. This was part of the inspection for the upcoming three-day national-level water sports competitions planned from January 11 to 13. Kothapeta MLA Bandaru Satyananda Rao confirmed, "Mr. Mahesh Kumar has been trained in Kayaking. However, he did not sustain any injuries during the inspection after which he attended a government programme." The water sports will be held on a four-kilometre stretch between Pulidindi and Lolla Irrigation lock. Twenty-seven teams have registered for dragon boat racing and kayaking events. In an official release, Mr. Mahesh Kumar assured that all safety measures are in place for the competitions. The event is part of the Sankranti festival and aims to attract tourists to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema District.