Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Feb 21: A fishing boat moored near the bridge at the Baputhota fishing harbor caught fire on February 19, resulting in a total loss of Rs 15 lacs.

The incident occurred on a small trawl fishing boat named 'Raviprakash,' owned by Janardhan T Kanchan of Malpe. The fire was noticed by local fishermen, who promptly alerted authorities, preventing a major disaster.

The boat had been parked in the estuary near Baputhota after its crew had finished fishing for the day. Local residents and the fire department quickly responded to the scene and managed to extinguish the flames. Despite around 25 to 30 other boats being docked nearby, the rising sea levels helped prevent the fire from spreading to them.

The 'Raviprakash' boat, which was completely destroyed, contained fishing nets, 200 liters of diesel, GPS equipment, a fish finder, life jackets, a water tank, and various other boxes. The total loss is estimated to be around Rs 15 lac.