Six Fishermen Missing After Boat Capsizes Off Visakhapatnam Coast

A major search and rescue operation is underway off the Visakhapatnam coast after a fishing boat carrying seven fishermen reportedly capsized in rough weather, leaving six fishermen missing . One fisherman was rescued by the crew of a passing cruise vessel, while multiple agencies continue an extensive search for the others.

According to fishing community representatives, the fishermen had set out to sea on July 1 and had informed their families that they would return by the afternoon of July 4 after completing their fishing expedition. Concern mounted when the boat failed to return as scheduled and all communication with the crew was lost. With the fishermen's mobile phones remaining switched off, family members alerted the authorities.

The Indian Coast Guard immediately launched search operations, joined by Marine Police and other agencies. During the operation, one fisherman was located and rescued by personnel aboard a cruise ship passing through the area. However, the remaining six fishermen are yet to be traced.

According to Visakhapatnam Fishing Boats Association president Lakshmana Rao, the incident is believed to have occurred amid adverse weather conditions triggered by the southwest monsoon . Strong winds and high waves developed suddenly in the sea, creating dangerous conditions for fishing vessels operating offshore.

He said that nearly 400 fishing boats were at sea when the weather deteriorated. Several vessels reportedly faced difficulties due to rough seas and strong winds. Authorities suspect that the missing fishermen's boat may have overturned in these conditions.

The incident prompted an immediate response from Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who reviewed the rescue operations with senior officials. He directed authorities to intensify the search efforts and ensure that every possible measure is taken to locate the missing fishermen.

The Chief Minister also instructed officials to deploy additional Coast Guard vessels if necessary and utilise all available resources for the rescue mission. Officials informed him that Indian Navy helicopters have also been pressed into service to support the search operation.

At present, the Coast Guard, Navy, Marine Police and local police are conducting a coordinated search across a wide area of the sea. Authorities said efforts are continuing round the clock, while the families of the missing fishermen remain anxious and hopeful that their loved ones will be found safe.