Godavari search and rescue: Eighteen bodies yet to recover

Hyderabad : On Sunday, a private tourist boat carrying 73 passengers — including eight

crewmembers — capsized in the Godavari and the search and rescue operation that followed

has resulted in the recovery of 28 bodies. While local populace was triumphant in saving 27

passengers as the accident occurred, 18 people are still missing, according to Andhra Pradesh

State Disaster Management (APSDMA). Out of the 28 dead bodies, post mortem formalities

have been completed for all, except one, and were handed over to relatives.

A specialised deep diver’s team utilising a Side Scan Sonar from Uttarakhand is engaged in

the rescue operations alongside the Uttarakhand Disaster Response Force (DRF) team. Two

National DRF and three State DRF teams are also involved in rescue operations with all

necessary equipment. Six teams from East and West Godavari Districts with eight IR boats,

12 Aska Lights and one Satellite phone are engaged in the operations.

A team of Deep Divers from the Indian Navy is engaged in the rescue operations. Two Navy,

one ONGC Chopper are deployed into service for search and rescue operations.