Another Fishing Boat Sinks in Gangolli; Six Fishermen Rescued
Kundapur: Another fishing boat sank in the Gangolli estuary on Wednesday, triggering concern among the local fishing community, though all six fishermen aboard were rescued safely by nearby fishermen. The incident comes just a week after a purse seine boat reportedly sank completely in the Arabian Sea in the same region.
The boat, identified as Manjunatha Sagara, a three-seventy vessel owned by Santosh A. of Koravady, Kumbashi, had departed from Gangolli Fishing Harbour on Wednesday morning for regular fishing operations. However, while operating in the estuary, the vessel suddenly sank, placing the crew in immediate danger.
On noticing the mishap, fishermen from nearby boats swiftly rushed to the site in a purse seine boat and carried out a prompt rescue operation. All six fishermen on board were brought to safety without injury. Their timely rescue prevented what could have been a serious tragedy.
Later, with the help of another boat, the partially submerged vessel was towed back to Gangolli harbour. However, by then, the damage had already been done. The fishing nets and other equipment on board were reportedly destroyed, causing losses estimated at several lakhs of rupees. Despite the severe damage, no loss of life was reported.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns among fishermen in the area, who expressed strong anger against the Coastal Security Police Department. According to them, the boat meant for rescue operations during emergencies has remained non-operational at the harbour and has not been put into service even after a month since the fishing season began.
Fishermen alleged that the absence of an effective rescue vessel at the harbour has left them vulnerable during emergencies. They urged the authorities to immediately make the rescue boat operational and strengthen safety arrangements to prevent further accidents at sea.
The repeated sinking incidents in the Gangolli region have highlighted the risks faced by fishermen and the urgent need for better emergency preparedness and maritime safety measures.