Panic and anguish have gripped the coastal hamlets of Odisha as 20 fishermen—who ventured into the deep sea to earn a livelihood—have gone missing right ahead of the approaching Severe Cyclone Arnab.
The group, which includes women and minors from Sabarsahi under Petachhela Panchayat in Mahakalapada block (Kendrapara district), had set out a week ago to hunt crabs and fish. However, they have failed to return or establish contact.
Stranded Near Launchgola Islands?
Local sources suspect that sudden weather disruptions triggered by Cyclone Arnab forced the group to seek shelter around the Launchgola (Langgugola) archipelago, located near the Madeli River mouth.
“Sea is our livelihood, but having no news for days is terrifying. We are only praying for their safe return,” said a concerned resident of Petachhela.
Administration Initiates Search Operations
Taking serious note of the critical situation, the Kendrapara district administration has launched a search and rescue effort:
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Monitoring: District Collector Raghuram Iyer confirmed that the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Rajnagar Forest Division is closely monitoring the development.
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Patrolling: Forest officials and patrolling units have searched nearby islands, though initial sweeps found no trace of the group.
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Ongoing Efforts: Search operations in the deep sea remain underway despite rough maritime conditions. Local fishing communities are actively assisting authorities.
Cyclone Arnab Advances Towards Odisha Coast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has classified Cyclone Arnab as a very severe cyclonic storm advancing rapidly towards the coasts of Andhra Pradesh and Southern Odisha.
Although strict advisories were issued instructing fishermen not to venture into the sea—leaving hundreds of boats docked at harbours—the fate of those who had set sail prior to the warnings remains a matter of grave concern. Administration and family members continue to hold out hope for a safe return.
