By News Karnataka
Copyright newskarnataka
Mangaluru: A major tragedy was averted off the coast of Karnataka after a deep-sea fishing trawler, which suffered an engine failure mid-sea, drifted ashore near Ullal Seaground. All 13 fishermen on board were rescued safely in the early hours of Monday, though the vessel sustained heavy damage.
Engine failure leaves crew stranded
The ill-fated vessel, Buraq Trawler Boat, belongs to Mohammad Ashfaq, a resident of Mukkachery, Ullal. The boat had left the Old Port in Mangaluru on Sunday night for a deep-sea fishing expedition in the Arabian Sea. Midway through the voyage, the boat’s engine malfunctioned, leaving it stranded in the waters.
Despite several other fishing boats operating in the vicinity, the distress situation initially went unnoticed. With no means to navigate or communicate effectively, the crew faced hours of uncertainty as they drifted helplessly in rough seas.
Strong currents push trawler ashore
According to local sources, the strong sea currents eventually carried the boat towards the shoreline. In the early hours of Monday, the trawler was washed ashore near Ullal Seaground, much to the relief of the stranded crew. The fishermen managed to escape unharmed, though the incident left them shaken.
However, the trawler itself suffered significant structural damage in the process. This has resulted in substantial losses for the owner, adding a financial setback to what could have been a life-threatening situation.
Concerns over safety at sea
The incident has once again raised concerns about safety precautions and preparedness for deep-sea fishing operations. Fishermen often venture far into the Arabian Sea, and engine failures or sudden technical malfunctions pose serious risks. Experts have pointed out the need for routine maintenance of vessels and the installation of modern safety equipment, including distress communication systems, to avoid such situations.
Local fishing communities have also called for greater support from authorities in ensuring emergency response mechanisms are available for such cases. With thousands of fishermen depending on deep-sea fishing for their livelihood, safety at sea continues to be a pressing concern.
Community relief and solidarity
The safe return of all 13 fishermen has brought relief to their families and the wider fishing community in Ullal and Mangaluru. Relatives, who had been anxiously waiting for updates, expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in the ordeal. Community leaders have extended support to the affected boat owner and crew, while also appealing to authorities for compensation to cover the damages sustained by the vessel.
The Ullal trawler mishap serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life at sea and the urgent need for preventive measures. While the fishermen were fortunate to survive without injury, the financial burden of repairing or replacing the damaged vessel remains a challenge. Strengthening safety protocols and providing better emergency systems will be crucial in safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of coastal communities in future.
