Mangaluru: A major maritime mishap was narrowly averted after a fishing boat from Malpe harbour in Udupi sank about five nautical miles off the coast. All fishermen on board were rescued safely by the crews of nearby fishing vessels, preventing what could have turned into a serious tragedy.
The fishing boat, named Bhagirathi, belongs to Jai Salian, a resident of Mabukala in Brahmavar. The vessel had ventured into the Arabian Sea for a fishing expedition on May 24 and was engaged in routine fishing operations when the incident occurred.
Technical issue interrupts fishing trip
According to information available, the boat developed a gearbox-related technical problem on the morning of May 26 while fishing around 8 to 10 nautical miles off the coast. The vessel was subsequently brought to the Old Port for repair work at around 9.30 am.
After repairs were completed, the boat resumed its fishing operations later that night at approximately 9.30 pm through Alive Gate. The crew then continued fishing activities in the waters off the coast.
However, the voyage took an unexpected turn when the vessel reportedly encountered another obstacle beneath the sea surface.
Suspected collision leads to sinking
Preliminary information suggests that Bhagirathi may have collided with a submerged section of another boat that had sunk earlier in the area. The impact is believed to have damaged the hull, allowing seawater to enter the vessel rapidly.
As water continued to flood the boat, the situation worsened within a short span of time, placing the crew in danger. The vessel began losing stability and eventually moved towards sinking.
The incident occurred during the early hours when visibility at sea was limited, making the rescue operation even more challenging.
Nearby fishermen launch rescue operation
At around 12.30 am, when the boat was on the verge of sinking completely, crews from four nearby fishing boats noticed the emergency and rushed to assist.
The fishermen aboard the rescue vessels acted swiftly and managed to evacuate all crew members from Bhagirathi to safety. Their prompt response ensured that no lives were lost in the incident.
Following the rescue, efforts were made to salvage the damaged vessel. The sinking boat was tied with ropes and towed with the help of two fishing boats towards the Hoige Bazaar area near the Old Port dock.
Despite these efforts, substantial quantities of seawater had already entered the vessel, causing severe damage to its engine and other critical systems.
Loss estimated at ₹25 lakh
The incident has resulted in significant financial losses for the boat owner. According to Jai Salian, nearly ₹1 lakh worth of fish caught during two days of fishing was destroyed after the boat filled with water.
In addition, around 2,500 litres of diesel stored on board was lost. Several expensive navigation and communication systems were also damaged, including GPS equipment, AIS tracking systems, wireless communication sets and fish-finding devices.
Fishing nets and other operational equipment sustained extensive damage as well. The owner estimates the overall loss at approximately ₹25 lakh, with the vessel reportedly suffering damage beyond economical repair.
The incident highlights the financial risks faced by fishermen, whose livelihoods depend heavily on the safety and functionality of their vessels and equipment.
Police register case
Following the incident, a case has been registered at the Mangaluru Coastal Security Police Station. Authorities have begun an investigation to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to the sinking of the vessel.
Officials are expected to examine whether the collision with a submerged object was the primary cause and whether additional safety measures may be required in the area to prevent similar incidents in the future.
While the loss of the vessel and equipment has dealt a major blow to the owner and crew, the safe rescue of all fishermen has been viewed as a fortunate outcome in what could have otherwise been a tragic maritime accident.