Intensive search operations underway for seven missing fishermen: District Collector Mahesh Kumar... Relief operations intensified in coordination with the Coast Guard, Navy, and Marine Police... Family members need not worry...
Amalapuram: Indian News Times :District Collector Dr. R. Mahesh Kumar and District SP Rahul Meena disclosed details regarding the search and relief operations for seven fishermen—who went missing after venturing into the sea from the Odalarevu fish landing center—during a press conference held at the Collector's chamber on Tuesday. District Collector Mahesh Kumar stated that the official machinery has initiated intensive measures to locate the seven missing fishermen. He informed that search and relief operations at sea are continuing in coordination with the Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Civil Police, and Fisheries Department officials.
He stated that on the evening of August 3rd, the seven fishermen had set out to sea from Odalarevu in a boat approximately 12 meters long, bearing registration number 'MO 135'. While they were expected to return around August 15th or 16th following a standard 12-day fishing trip, they had last spoken to their family members over the phone on August 5th. Search operations were subsequently launched after no further information was received from them. The Collector stated that although the boat was equipped with a VHF set, it lacked a transponder; consequently, the search radius has been expanded given that the vessel had ventured on a long-distance voyage, approximately 120 to 150 kilometers from the coast.
He mentioned that Indian Coast Guard vessels patrolling the waters off Kakinada and Visakhapatnam have been alerted and provided with full details regarding the missing boat. Search operations are continuing in coordination with the Indian Navy.
Noting the possibility that the fishermen might have headed northeast or northwest for their catch, he stated that fishermen's associations and Fisheries Department officials in coastal areas like Kakinada and Uppada have been alerted. Details of the missing boat have also been shared with other fishing vessels at sea, with instructions to inform officials immediately if any trace is found. District SP Rahul Meena stated that the police department is taking all necessary measures to locate the seven missing fishermen. He mentioned that a missing person case has been registered at the Allavaram police station and the investigation has been expedited. The SP added that efforts to trace them involve analyzing Call Data Records (CDR) from the fishermen's phones and examining other available technical data. He stated that they are providing necessary support for the search operations while maintaining constant coordination with the Marine Police, Coast Guard, and Fisheries Department officials. SP Rahul Meena assured the fishermen's families that police officials are in constant contact with them and that the police department will provide all possible assistance until the fishermen are located. Fisheries Department officials explained that boats venturing out to sea sometimes remain there for 15 to 20 days, depending on weather, sea conditions, and fishing circumstances. Nevertheless, the Collector stated that, given the current situation, the administration remains fully alert and has intensified search operations. Officials expressed optimism that the fishermen would be located and return safely within the next two to three days. District Collector Dr. R. Mahesh Kumar and SP Rahul Meena reassured the families, urging them not to worry and affirming that all necessary measures are being taken to bring the fishermen back safely. The Collector announced that updates and progress regarding the search operations would be shared with the media and the public daily in the evening through the District Public Relations Office (DPRO). He directed the concerned officials to ensure that all departments coordinate effectively and continue search and rescue operations without interruption until the fishermen are found. Fisheries Department Assistant Director Karunakar, District Public Relations Officer Ch. Srinivas, and others participated in the meeting.
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