Coast Guard Intensifies Search For Missing Fishermen, Says Atchannaidu

The Indian Coast Guard has intensified its search for the fishermen who went missing at sea, with multiple vessels and aircraft deployed to trace their boat and locate the crew, State Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu said on Friday.

The minister said the search operation is being carried out on a wide scale and will continue without interruption until the missing fishermen are located. State officials have been in regular contact with Coast Guard Assistant Commanding Officer Ranjit Kumar to monitor the progress of the operation and obtain updates on the efforts being made at sea.

According to Coast Guard officials, five Coast Guard ships, two Dornier aircraft and a helicopter are currently engaged in the search. Authorities have also expanded coordination with neighbouring maritime regions to increase the chances of tracing the vessel.

Information about the missing fishing boat has been shared with Coast Guard authorities in Myanmar, Port Blair and coastal areas along the Bangladesh border. Officials in these areas have been asked to remain alert and watch for any possible movement or sighting of the boat.

Atchannaidu said the fact that the boat has not yet been traced would not result in any break in the search operation. Coast Guard officials have assured the state government that the officer taking charge after August 24 will continue the search efforts.

The minister said the state government is coordinating continuously with the Coast Guard and Navy to explore every possible option and ensure the fishermen are brought back safely.

He appealed to the families of the missing fishermen to remain patient and courageous during the difficult period. All possible avenues will be pursued until the boat is located and the fishermen are safely brought back to their homes, Atchannaidu assured.