Seven fishermen escape as boat capsizes in rough seas off Visakhapatnam

Seven fishermen had a miraculous escape when their boat capsized near Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour on Thursday morning. Rough sea conditions, triggered by a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, caused the vessel to overturn.

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The vessel overturned in strong currents and was swept towards the tetrapods near the harbour, trapping the fishermen beneath the overturned boat. The crew managed to cling to the wreckage until they were rescued, escaping with their lives.

Officials reported that the fishermen had set out for a routine expedition when high waves overwhelmed their boat as they cast nets. The crew managed to cling to the wreckage amidst strong currents until rescue arrived, narrowly escaping with their lives. Two fishermen, Tata Rao and Akash, suffered severe injuries and were taken to King George Hospital for treatment. The other five fishermen were unhurt.

One survivor attributed their rescue to divine blessings and described the unexpected heavy tide as the cause of the accident. The incident led to substantial financial losses, with the boat and fishing nets, valued at approximately ₹4.5 lakh, completely destroyed. The fishermen have appealed to the state government for financial aid to restart their livelihood.

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We believe we are saved with the blessings of Goddess Gangamma.

State home minister Vangalapudi Anitha contacted local officials to inquire about the incident and directed them to ensure the injured fishermen receive the best medical care. She also urged fisheries department officials to enhance safety awareness among the fishing community during adverse weather, assuring government support for those affected.

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We lost our primary means of livelihood. We appeal to the state government for financial assistance to help us resume fishing.