MAPUSA
Three fishermen were rescued by the Goa Coastal Police with the assistance of local fishermen after a fishing canoe carrying five persons capsized off Fort Aguada near Sinquerim on Friday morning amid rough sea conditions.
Two of the fishermen managed to swim safely to the shore at Aguada soon after the canoe overturned. The remaining three clung to the capsized canoe as strong currents swept them towards the Reis Magos coast.
On receiving information about the incident, personnel of the Goa Coastal Police rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation with the help of local fishermen. The three stranded fishermen were safely brought ashore before personnel of the Fire and Emergency Services reached the scene.
Police said all five occupants escaped unhurt, and no injuries were reported in the incident.
Preliminary information suggests the canoe overturned after encountering rough sea conditions and strong currents prevailing along the coast during the southwest monsoon. Authorities have been cautioning fishermen and the public against venturing into turbulent waters as sea conditions remain hazardous during this period.
A senior coastal police official said the prompt response of the rescue team and the timely assistance of local fishermen ensured that all five occupants were rescued safely.
The incident once again highlights the risks posed by rough monsoon seas, even as the fishing season has resumed, with authorities urging fishermen to exercise caution while venturing into the sea.
