Vizag: A large-scale search operation is underway off the Visakhapatnam coast after six fishermen went missing when a fishing vessel is believed to have met with an accident in rough sea conditions. One crew member has been rescued, while authorities continue efforts to trace the remaining fishermen.
According to officials and local fishing community representatives, the group had ventured into the sea earlier this week for a fishing expedition. Their families grew concerned after repeated attempts to contact them failed, prompting them to alert the Indian Coast Guard and local marine authorities.
The lone survivor was reportedly spotted and rescued by a passing cruise vessel. He was later handed over to rescue agencies, while search teams expanded operations in the area where the boat is suspected to have overturned due to turbulent weather.
Fishing association members said hundreds of boats had gone out to sea during the period, but worsening weather conditions and strong winds created difficulties for several fishermen returning to the shore. Preliminary information suggests the missing boat may have capsized while heading back after completing its fishing trip.
The Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police and Navy have launched coordinated rescue efforts using patrol vessels and aerial surveillance. Helicopters have also been deployed to scan a wider stretch of the coastline in an attempt to locate the missing crew members.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the situation with senior officials and directed them to strengthen the rescue operation. He instructed agencies to ensure close coordination between the Coast Guard, Navy and local police while making all possible resources available for the search.
Officials said rescue teams are working continuously despite challenging sea conditions. The families of the missing fishermen have been assured that every effort is being made to locate them safely, while authorities continue to monitor the weather and evaluate developments in the operation.
