Andhra CM orders intensified search for 8 missing fishermen

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to escalate search efforts for eight fishermen who have been missing since August 3. The fishermen embarked on their journey from the Odalarevu Fish Landing Centre jetty on that date and lost contact with their families around 11 am on the same day.

The missing individuals hail from Odalarevu, Dummalapeta, and Vasalathippa villages within the BR Ambedkar Konaseevi district. Their vessel was expected back by August 12, but its failure to return prompted the launch of official search operations. The coordinated effort includes the Indian Coast Guard, the State fisheries department, and the BR Ambedkar Konaseema district administration.

During a review meeting, Chief Minister Naidu emphasized the need to utilize all available resources to locate the fishermen. He stressed that the search should continue in coordination until the boat and its crew are safely found. The CM assured the families of the missing fishermen of full government support and directed officials to provide them with regular updates on the ongoing operations.

Officials estimate the fishing boat may have reached its intended area by 6 pm on August 3. The boat is equipped with a Very High Frequency radio set, and the fishermen are carrying mobile phones. The Coast Guard commandant has alerted nearby patrol vessels, and fishing boats operating from Kakinada, Bhairavapalem, Visakhapatnam, and Paradip have also been alerted to assist in gathering information.

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Search operations to trace the eight fishermen who have been missing since their fishing boat left Odalarevu jetty on August 3 must be intensified, and all possible measures should be taken to locate them safely.