Bhadrak: As many as 10 fishermen had a narrow escape today after a fishing boat carrying them capsized at Baitarani river mouth near Dhamra Port in Bhadrak district while returning from the sea following IMD’s warning of a severe cyclonic storm approaching coast.
According to reports, all the fishermen from West Bengal’s Digha region had ventured into sea a few days ago for fishing. After learning about the approaching cyclone, they were returning to shore. However, the boat capsized at the river mouth.
Locals alerted the Marine Police and the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) who swung into action immediately. After hour-long operation, the team with the help of local fishermen successfully rescued all the fishermen from the water.
The police and ODRAF, however, failed to bring the boat back to shore due to high tides.
As cyclone ‘Dana’ approaching, ports along the Odisha coast have been put on high alert. All fishermen have been advised to return to shore. Around 253 registered boats have come back from the sea. The administration has also prohibited fishing activities until October 26.
