In a pressing search operation, N. Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, convened a meeting on August 12, 2026, to assess efforts to locate a fishing boat with eight missing fishermen. The vessel,which departed from Odalarevu jetty on August 3,was expected to return by August 12 but has not been seen since.
The fishermen,hailing from Odalarevu, Dummalapeta, and Vasalatippa villages, last communicated with their families on August 7 . Officials indicated that the boat had a VHF communication system and mobile phones,yet contact ceased after 11 a.m. that day. It is believed the boat reached its fishing grounds around 6 p.m. on August 7.
During the review, Naidu urged Indian Coast Guard (ICG),the Fisheries Department, and local district authorities to intensify their search efforts. He emphasized the importance of utilizing all available resources to ensure the safe return of the fishermen. Chief Minister also instructed officials to maintain consistent communication with the families of the missing crew members.
As part of the coordinated search, the ICG has deployed vessels and alerted fishing boats operating from Kakinada,Bhairavapalem,Visakhapatnam,and Paradip to report any sightings or information regarding the missing boat . The State Disaster Management Authority has also been notified to assist in the search .
Officials confirmed that the boat was equipped with 1,000 liters of diesel, significantly more than the 600 liters required for the journey, and had provisions sufficient for 17 days. This means the crew could potentially survive until August 20,should they remain safe.
Naidu reassured families of the fishermen,expressing the government's commitment to support them during this distressing time. He urged them to remain hopeful as search operations continue . The fishermen's disappearance adds to the growing concerns over safety at sea,particularly as rough weather conditions have been reported in the region .
The boat's last known position was near the Odisha coast,where it was believed to be fishing for tuna. The incident has raised alarms about the risks faced by local fishermen,especially during adverse weather conditions.
As the search progresses,the community remains on edge, hoping for a positive outcome . The Chief Minister's call for thorough search reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for effective response measures to safeguard the lives of those who venture into the sea.
