Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and Forest Minister Shibu Baby John meet Reshma, mother of Gautam Krishna who has been missing at sea, at her house at Chavara in Kollam on Monday (August 10, 2026).
| Photo Credit: C. SURESHKUMAR
A comprehensive sea rescue mechanism will be implemented in Kerala to ensure the safety of fishermen venturing into the sea, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said here on Monday (August 10, 2026).
The Chief Minister gave the assurance after visiting the residence of Gautam Krishnan, a 26-year-old fisher missing at sea since July 31 following a boat capsize off Neendakara. Gautam’s father and grandfather had lost their lives in the accident.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan at the residence of Reshma, who lost her father and husband in a fishing boat capsize off Neendakara in Kollam
| Video Credit:
Special Arrangement
The Chief Minister, who was accompanied by Forest Minister Shibu Baby John, said search operations are continuing by integrating all available systems on an unprecedented scale, despite severe weather constraints. He added that the State will develop a model weather forecasting framework for the entire country, noting that necessary funds have already been allocated in the Budget with this long-term vision in mind.
Preventing future tragedies
“Local knowledge and the active participation of traditional fishers will also be incorporated into the new system. Also, steps will be taken towards modernising and upgrading the coastal police forces and streamlining operations across all maritime agencies to prevent future tragedies,” Mr. Satheesan said, adding that time-bound construction of sea walls will be carried out to combat severe coastal erosion along the region.
The Chief Minister pointed out that Mr. John, who also represents Chavara constituency, has been actively involved in coordinating efforts since the incident occurred and giving him regular hour-by-hour reviews of search progress.
District Collector Annie Jula Thomas, local political representatives, leaders of fisher organisations, and officials from various departments were also present during the visit.
Published – August 10, 2026 03:57 pm IST
