PM condoles loss of lives in Andhra boat tragedy

PM condoles loss of lives in Andhra boat tragedy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed anguish over the capsizing of a boat in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari and said rescue operations were currently underway at the site of the tragedy.

”Extremely pained by the capsizing of a boat in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari. My thoughts are with the bereaved families,” the Prime Minister said in his tweet.
”Rescue operations are currently underway at the site of the tragedy,” he said.

A private launch with 62 people on board, including ten member crew on its way to Papikondalu from Gandipochamma temple in Devipatnam Mandal on East Godavari side capsized in river Godavari which is in spate between Manturu and Kachhuluru, 90 kms from Kakinada around 1400 hrs.

According to preliminary reports reaching the district police headquarters here, more than 35 passengers mostly women and children were feared drowned while 14 people with life jackets swam ashore safely. Ten passengers with life jackets while being washed away were rescued by the villagers of Tootugunta using the motor boats.
Police sources said that two bodies were retrieved and a massive search is on for the missing passengers by engaging the expert local swimmers. (UNI)