Ten fishermen from Andhra Pradesh were rescued off the coast of Puri,Odisha, following a distress call regarding their boat's engine failure. The incident occurred on Sunday, July 5,2026, when the vessel,identified as IND-AP-V5-MM-872, drifted towards the coast after losing power. Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu confirmed the successful rescue operation, which involved coordination with the Odisha Marine Police and local fishing vessels.
Minister Atchannaidu expressed gratitude towards the Odisha government and the Marine Police for their swift response. He noted that all ten crew members, including the boat owner,Danayya,were brought to safety . Arrangements are being made to return fishermen to their home state.
In a separate incident, another group of fishermen who had been stranded off Paradip coast have safely reached Paradip Harbour. Their boat also experienced engine troubles and was carried into deeper waters due to adverse weather conditions. Minister Atchannaidu announced that these fishermen would arrive in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday, July 7,2026, after medical checks confirmed their well-being.
“All stranded fishermen are safe and have reached Paradip Harbour,” Atchannaidu stated in a press release. He emphasized the government's commitment to the safety of fishermen,stating,“The safety of the fishermen is the government’s highest priority.” Personnel from the Ichchapuram police have been dispatched to oversee the arrangements for the fishermen’s return.
However, situation remains critical for six fishermen who are still missing off the Visakhapatnam coast. This group was part of a third incident involving boat that capsized on July 1, 2026. One survivor, Kari Chinna, was rescued and airlifted to INS Dega in Visakhapatnam by an Indian Navy helicopter. Medical evaluations confirmed he is in good health, but search continues for the remaining six individuals.
Atchannaidu reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring the safety of all fishermen,stating that they have been in constant communication with relevant officials throughout the rescue efforts. “We have taken all necessary measures for their well-being,” he added.
The East Coast Mechanised Fishing Boat Owners Association has issued a warning to all vessels at sea,urging them to exercise extreme caution due to ongoing monsoon winds and rough seas along coast . The association's advisory highlights dangers posed by the current weather conditions, which have already impacted several fishing operations.
As the search for the missing fishermen continues,the community remains hopeful for their safe return. The incidents underscore the risks faced by fishermen during the monsoon season,a time when many are drawn to the sea despite dangers.
