In a high-stakes maritime incident triggered by a severe low-pressure system, over 27 fishing trawlers from Andhra Pradesh—with some reports placing the count at 34—became stranded in turbulent waters off the Aryapalli coast under Chatrapur block in Ganjam district.
The trawlers, originating from the Kakinada region of Andhra Pradesh, were carrying numerous crew members who found themselves stuck in dangerous sea conditions for several hours as gale-force winds and towering waves battered their vessels.
Despite an explicit fishing ban enforced by the Ganjam District Marine Fisheries Department restricting sea entry between July 4 and July 7 due to adverse weather warnings, the Andhra vessels had ventured out into the deep sea. When weather conditions sharply deteriorated, strong winds and swells blocked their passage back to their home port, leaving them helpless off the Aryapalli shoreline.
Promptly responding to the developing crisis, the Ganjam district administration initiated swift coordination with relevant maritime and port authorities. Permission was granted on an emergency basis for the distressed trawlers to navigate into the sheltered backwater channel of Gopalpur Port.
Systematically, the stranded boats docked one after another at the harbour, facilitating the safe evacuation of all fishermen on board without any reported casualties. Port officials and local authorities extended basic amenities and support to the rescued crew members. Officials confirmed that all crew members are currently safe and will depart for Andhra Pradesh as soon as weather conditions stabilise.
Reiterating its safety protocols, the Marine Fisheries Department issued a fresh advisory urging all regional and local fishermen across Ganjam to strictly refrain from venturing into the sea until turbulent conditions subside.
