Vizag (Rajeev Sharma): Rescue agencies have intensified efforts to locate six fishermen who remain missing after a fishing vessel reportedly met with an accident in the Bay of Bengal near the Visakhapatnam coast. One member of the crew has been rescued safely, while search teams continue operations across the affected area.
The fishermen had set out to sea several days ago and were expected to return after completing their fishing trip. Concern grew among their family members when they failed to arrive on schedule and could not be contacted. Following the alert, maritime authorities launched an extensive search operation.
According to officials, the boat is suspected to have encountered rough weather while returning to the shore. Strong winds and turbulent sea conditions prevailing along the coast are believed to have contributed to the mishap, though the exact circumstances are yet to be confirmed.
The lone survivor was reportedly rescued by a commercial vessel passing through the area before being handed over to the concerned authorities. His statement is expected to help investigators understand what happened to the fishing boat.
The Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, and Indian Navy are jointly conducting the search operation using patrol boats, surveillance equipment, and helicopters. Rescue teams have widened the search radius in an effort to trace the missing fishermen as quickly as possible.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reviewed the ongoing rescue mission and instructed officials to deploy all available resources. He also directed various agencies to maintain close coordination and provide regular updates on the progress of the operation.
Members of the local fishing community said unpredictable weather has made fishing activities increasingly risky in recent days. Several fishermen reportedly faced difficulties returning to the coast due to high waves and strong winds associated with the active monsoon conditions.
Authorities have appealed to fishermen operating in nearby waters to remain alert and immediately report any information that could assist in locating the missing crew. The search operation is continuing without interruption as hopes remain that the missing fishermen will be found.
