Seven fishermen from Nizampatnam in Andhra Pradesh’s Bapatla district were safely brought ashore after being stranded at sea near Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour in Nellore district amid rough weather conditions associated with Cyclone Murasu.
The fishermen had gone out for fishing in a motorised boat despite repeated warnings from authorities asking fishing communities to avoid venturing into the sea. They became stranded approximately five kilometres from Juvvaladinne Harbour after strong winds and high waves made it difficult for them to return to the coast.
Three Hours of Struggle Amid Rough Seas
The fishermen faced nearly three hours of difficulty as powerful waves and strong winds prevented their boat from reaching the shore. The situation created serious concern among officials, who initiated efforts to ensure their safe return.
Marine police and other authorities began rescue efforts. As conditions gradually eased, the fishermen managed to reach the coast near Pata Kadapali safely.
Their safe return brought relief to the officials involved in monitoring the situation and responding to the incident.
Authorities Issue Warnings Along the Coast
The incident occurred as coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh remained on alert due to the impact of Cyclone Murasu. Authorities had repeatedly advised fishermen not to venture into the sea and asked motorised fishing boats to return to shore.
Krishna Patnam Port had also issued Danger Signal No. 8, indicating the seriousness of the prevailing weather conditions.
Nellore District Collector Himanshu Shukla placed officials on alert and reviewed preparedness measures. Government employees and officials were directed to remain available, while leave was cancelled for personnel involved in emergency response.
Schools and colleges in the district were also declared closed as a precautionary measure.
Coastal Villages and Water Bodies Under Watch
Authorities were particularly monitoring low-lying fishing villages located between the Buckingham Canal and the sea, where rising water levels could create flooding risks.
The district also has around 1,200 interconnected chain tanks. Officials were reviewing their condition to prevent a possible chain reaction in the event of heavy rainfall and tank breaches. Irrigation department personnel were taking precautionary measures, including placing sandbags at vulnerable locations.
Fishermen Urged to Follow Weather Advisories
The safe return of the seven fishermen highlights the risks of venturing into the sea during cyclone warnings and rough weather.
Authorities continue to urge fishing communities to follow official weather advisories and avoid fishing until conditions become safe. For fishermen, checking weather updates and harbour warnings before every trip remains essential to protecting lives at sea.
