11 rescue personnel missing after boats capsize in Telangana floodwaters
Personnel from the SDRF and Fire Services went missing in Khammam district while attempting to save five fishermen.
Eleven personnel from the Telangana State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the Fire Services Department went missing on Wednesday after two boats overturned in the overflowing Bethupalli tank in Khammam district, according to the Hindustan Times. The incident occurred in Sathupalli mandal while the teams were trying to rescue five fishermen who had become trapped in strong currents.
The rescue attempt began after three firefighters' boat experienced a technical snag, leaving them stranded. A larger team, including six SDRF personnel from Kothagudem, four Fire Services members, and two local guides, set out in two boats to assist. While the initial three firefighters were brought back safely, both rescue boats subsequently capsized in the turbulent water.
Khammam district collector Divakar T S and Sathupalli MLA Matta Ragamayi arrived at the scene to coordinate efforts. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams from Bhadrachalam have been called in to assist, and officials plan to use drones to drop life jackets to those in the water. Preliminary reports indicate the five fishermen are safe.
Chief minister A Revanth Reddy has directed the district collector to take all necessary measures for the safe recovery of the missing personnel. He also instructed chief secretary Sanjay Jaju to monitor the progress of the operations.
Revenue minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy expressed concern and ordered officials to expedite the search. The minister stated he is in constant contact with the district collector and will visit the site on Thursday morning to oversee the operation.