Thiruvananthapuram: On Saturday, yet another boat mishap occurred at Muthalapozhi harbour, known for being perilous for fishermen. A fishing boat lost control once again and collided with the breakwater structure (Pulimuttu). Two fishermen named Abi and Moitheen were thrown into the sea due to the impact, but fortunately, they managed to swim back to the shore safely.
The incident took place at 7 o’clock in the morning when the fishing boat went out of control, resulting in its capsizing. Both Abhi and Moitheen remained unharmed. While Abi swam to safety, a group of fellow fishermen came to Moitheen’s rescue, pulling him out of the water. The capsized boat belonged to Anil, a native of Pudukurichi. With the assistance of other boats, the overturned vessel was later brought back to the shore.
The spotlight fell on Muthalapozhi when a recent boat accident claimed the lives of four fishermen. Now, with another accident occurring, although no lives were lost this time, the reoccurrence has sparked concerns among the fishing community. The frequency of boat accidents at Muthalapozhi harbour has become a worrisome trend.
Fishermen in the coastal area point fingers at the inadequate dredging and unscientific construction of the harbour, holding them responsible for these recurring mishaps. The very purpose for which the two breakwaters were built, intended to facilitate the harbour, has now paradoxically become a peril for the livelihoods of those dependent on the sea. Both the state and central governments have given assurances of taking proactive measures to address the issue. However, the local community remains doubtful and insists that they will only believe the promises when changes concretely happen.
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