Hyderabad, Apr 26 (IANS): A major tragedy was averted in Hussain Sagar lake here when a boat carrying about 30 tourists got trapped in a massive thunderstorm.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night but the video of the boat becoming inoperable and drifting aimlessly surfaced on Wednesday.

'Bhagmati', the boat operated by the tourism department, was trapped in the middle of the lake with 30 tourists onboard when a massive thunderstorm hit parts of the city.

The incident occurred when the boat was bringing tourists back from Buddha Statue in the middle of the lake.

The boat became inoperable and started drifting towards the Hyderabad Boat Club, giving tense moments to the tourists and the crew. Police personnel deployed near the lake quickly responded to the situation by alerting the authorities concerned.

Speed boats with rescuers were pressed into service. They threw ropes and tied them to keep the boat steady. The passengers were safely deboarded and taken to the shore in speed boats. Later, with the help of Hyderabad Boat Club, the boat was towed back to the jetty.

The boat engine had reportedly failed but the Telangana State Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC) denied this. According to TSTDC officials, the Captain had turned off the engine as the boat was approaching the jetty. However, due to gusty winds, the boat drifted away.