Keralam: Navy's help sought to locate missing fishermen at Muthalapozhi
Thiruvananthapuram, August 1
Keralam Transport Minister CP John on Saturday said that two fishermen who went missing after their boat capsized in Vizhinjam off Thiruvananthapuram's coast have returned safely. However, the search continues for two others in a separate capsizing incident at Muthalapozhi.
The State Government has requested assistance from the Indian Navy to bolster rescue operations.
"All the missing fishermen have come back, fortunately. And most of them have some injuries; they are immediately hospitalised. The Coast Guard and the Fisheries Department did their best with the help of police and other forces... But unfortunately, Muthalapozhi is a bit different. It is taking its toll, but the rescue system was very good. I congratulate all those who are involved in the rescue operations, including our collector and police officials. When we heard that many were missing, our district collector wrote a letter to the naval officials, and they were ready to come... We are waiting for all the boats and Kattumaram to come back..."
The Keralam government sought the assistance of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard for emergency search and rescue operations after two people were reported missing following a boat capsize incident in the rough sea conditions at Muthalapozhi.
Congress MLA Ramya Haridas, who reached Muthalapozhi, said, "We are all here at Muthalapozhi. The Fisheries Minister called us this morning, and the Chief Minister also spoke to us and gave directions. Arrangements have been made to bring in all possible emergency assistance at the earliest, including the Marine and Coastal Guard teams and, if possible, support from the Navy. We have also been informed that the marine team from Vizhinjam is on its way. However, the sea is extremely rough and turbulent at the moment, making it difficult for the team to reach the location quickly."
The boat carrying four fishermen capsized at around 8.30 pm on Friday while returning after fishing. Police identified the missing fishermen as Shijin, 32, and Freemon, 28, both residents of Anchuthengu. Two fishermen, Jose and Smith, managed to swim to safety.
Family members of the missing fishermen staged a protest in front of the Anchuthengu Coastal Police Station, alleging a delay in launching the search operation.
A statement issued by the Office of the Keralam Chief Minister VD Satheesan said assistance of the Indian Navy had been sought to trace the missing fishermen.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The government should have been more proactive. Why wait for a letter to be written? These rescue operations need to be pre-planned, especially in areas known for rough seas. Praying for the fishermen and their families.
Our Navy and Coast Guard are always ready to help in times of crisis. The Minister's statement shows coordination is happening. But the family protest raises a valid point – every minute counts in such situations. Hope all missing persons are found soon.
It's heartbreaking to see the families protesting outside the police station. The authorities should have acted faster. Kattumaram fishing is our traditional livelihood – these brave men deserve better support from the government. 🤲
The sea near Muthalapozhi is notorious for its strong currents. I've seen many near-miss incidents there. This is a wake-up call – we need better weather monitoring systems and safety equipment for our fishermen.
Kerala's coastal communities are resilient. The way the local people, police and Coast Guard rallied together shows our unity. Hoping the Navy's advanced equipment helps find Shijin and Freemon. Stay strong, Anchuthengu!
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