AP: Seven missing Konaseema fishermen found safe off West Bengal coast
Amaravati, Aug 26 (TNT): Seven fishermen from Konaseema district, who had gone missing at sea nearly three weeks ago, were found safe near the West Bengal coast, bringing relief to their families and the fishing community.
The fishermen from Allavaram mandal had set out from Odalarevu Fish Landing Centre on August 3 and failed to return as expected.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed relief over their safe recovery and congratulated the search teams and officials involved in the operation.
He directed senior officials to make all necessary arrangements to ensure the safe return of the fishermen to their native places.
According to officials, the boat carrying the fishermen developed a technical problem at sea and was subsequently swept towards the West Bengal coast by strong winds.
After the boat failed to return, the Chief Minister directed authorities to launch an immediate and comprehensive search operation.
He personally monitored the rescue efforts, deputed ministers to oversee the operation and reviewed the situation three times, seeking regular updates.
Acting on his directions, the state government coordinated with the Indian Navy, Coast Guard and central marine agencies.
Officials also alerted the West Bengal Coast Guard and fishermen operating from Shankarpur Fishing Harbour, based on the possibility that the boat had drifted towards the West Bengal coast.
The sustained search efforts led to the boat being located near Shankarpur, following which all seven fishermen were rescued safely.
Authorities informed their families after confirming their whereabouts, ending weeks of uncertainty.
The Chief Minister directed officials to make arrangements for the fishermen’s safe return to their hometowns and stressed the need to ensure the safety of fishermen venturing into the sea for their livelihood.
TNT KM
