Bengaluru: As many as 47 students from Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) here have been hospitalised after they complained of loose stools and dehydration, officials said on Saturday.

According to Ramesh Krishna, Dean and Director of BMCRI, 47 students from the Institute's girls hostel were admitted to Victoria Hospital on Friday.

Out of these, 28 are in Trauma Care Centre, 13 are in H Block and three are in ICU for observation. All of them suffered from loose stools and dehydration. They have been diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis.

"Investigations have been sent and antibiotics & IV fluids are being administered. We are awaiting the reports," he stated. A doctor from Victoria Hospital said, "All students are stable now. They have been diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis. Though there is a suspicion of cholera, we are waiting for reports for clarity. Reports are expected soon."

Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Department had on Friday said six confirmed cases of cholera have been reported in the state so far this year of which five were reported in March. Amid reports that extreme heat compounded with the water crisis has led to a scare of a cholera outbreak, the department however clarified that all these cases are "sporadic" and that there was no outbreak.

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Bengaluru: Bengaluru Traffic Police has launched a unique social media campaign inspired by Studio Ghibli's animation style to discourage dangerous motorcycle stunts like wheelies. This comes after the department booked nearly 60 cases of wheelie-related violations on March 27, leading to the arrest of 45 individuals, including minors.

A wheelie involves lifting a motorcycle's front wheel off the ground while riding, a stunt often performed in groups for an adrenaline rush. Recognising the trend's popularity among youngsters, the police adapted the Ghibli aesthetic to deliver their message, stating, "Even in the whimsical world of Ghibli, wheeling is no fairytale – it's dangerous and punishable. For your safety and the safety of others, follow traffic rules. Ride responsibly!"

The campaign targets individuals aged 21-30, who, according to police data, are most likely to engage in such stunts. Officials say creative initiatives like this help connect with younger audiences and reinforce road safety awareness.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) M N Anucheth emphasised that wheelies pose risks not only to riders but also to other road users. He added that minors caught performing stunts often result in legal action against their guardians.

The issue has been severe in Bengaluru, with some areas like Old Madras Road, Tumakuru Road, Peenya Flyover, and the International Airport Road being hotspots for such activities. In one incident last August, frustrated motorists threw two scooters off the Nelamangala Flyover after catching riders performing wheelies on a busy road.

Police warn that those caught engaging in wheelies face fines of up to ₹25,000, vehicle seizures, and possible cancellation or suspension of registration certificates.