At least 36 missing, 16 rescued after a boat capsizes in Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh

Hyderabad, May 16: In Andhra Pradesh, at least 36 persons are feared to be missing after a boat capsized in Godavari River in East Godavari district on Tuesday.

The boat, carrying 55 people, was on its way to Rajamahendravaram from Kondamodalu when the incident took place because passengers panicked and ran towards one side, resulting in the launch capsizing. 16 people were rescued by NDRF and local authorities. The rescue operations are on to trace the missing persons. Among the rescued owner cum driver Sheik Khaza Mohiuddin was saved by the local villagers, later he surrendered to the Police authorities.

 

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to East Godavari district officials and ordered for immediate relief measures. In his tweet, he has said, “The incident of the Godavari near Devaratnam Mandalam in East Godavari district is very painful. Officers have been ordered to take relief operations on the war basis. The district authorities have indicated that the victims should be protected by all means.”

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed sadness over the incident. In a tweet, Modi extended his condolences by saying Anguished by the capsizing of a boat in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district. Condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the safety of those missing.