Indus Valley Times

By Pravakara Sahoo

Paradip, Sept. 20: At least three fishermen went missing after a boat capsized in the sea near Paradip on Tuesday, family members of the ill-fated fishermen informed on Wednesday.

As per initial reports, eight fishermen were returning to the shore in the boat after it reportedly capsized hitting sand and strong sea currents. A massive operation was subsequently launched to rescue the fishermen. Even a chopper of the Indian Coast Guard was pressed into service.

The rescue operation by the Indian Coast Guard helicopter was subsequently suspended late evening.

Jagatsinghpur superintendent of police (SP) Rahul PR on Wednesday said, “Eight fishermen were missing and later five of them were rescued. A joint operation was launched by the Coast Guard, Marine Police, the Port, and CISF. Due to the timely intervention of CISF and the Port, two fishermen were initially rescued. Later, three were rescued with the help of another fishing boat.”

Latest report said although the Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday resumed the search operation there was no trace of the missing fishermen.

The official said that the chopper operation which was again resumed on Wednesday was suspended in the evening. The Indian Coast Guard and other vessels were present and efforts are on to trace the missing fishermen.

“Marine Police is also collecting information if the fishermen have swum to some other place to provide immediate medical attention,” the SP added.