Search Intensified For Seven Missing Fishermen

VIJAYAWADA: The search for seven fishermen from the Amalapuram region who went missing at sea has been intensified, with 15 Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessels and four helicopters deployed in the operation.

Agriculture and fisheries minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu said the search was being conducted in coordination with the ICG, Indian Navy and other agencies with the support of the Centre. Amalapuram MP Harish Balayogi met the Union Defence Minister on Tuesday to discuss the search, following which the defence ministry alerted the Coast Guard and stepped up operations.

On the directions of the deputy director general (operations) at ICG headquarters, the Eastern and North-Eastern commands in Kolkata have also joined the operation. The search area has been expanded, while electronic surveillance is being carried out through the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC).

Authorities are examining the possibility of the missing boat drifting into foreign waters, and maritime authorities in Myanmar and Bangladesh have been alerted, Atchannaidu said. The Coast Guard is also checking whether an engine malfunction could have left the boat stranded at sea.

Search teams are analysing electronic surveillance inputs and information from maritime authorities, while taking into account ocean currents, wind direction and speed, weather conditions and the routes normally used by fishermen.

The operation has been extended to Diamond Harbour, the Sundarbans and adjoining maritime areas. The state government is coordinating with Central agencies and monitoring the search, Atchannaidu said, adding that all possible efforts were being made to trace the missing fishermen.

He appealed to the families of the missing fishermen to remain courageous and hopeful.