The Indian Coast Guard has launched a detailed investigation into the tragic sinking of the fishing trawler FB Paramita-11 in the Bay of Bengal. The vessel met with disaster on December 15 following a collision near the sensitive India-Bangladesh International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
Salvage Operation and Inspection
After the collision, the sunken trawler was successfully salvaged and towed a significant distance of nearly 110 nautical miles to the Kakdwip Fishing Harbour in West Bengal. It is currently docked there for examination. A dedicated four-member Coast Guard team, led by Deputy Commandant Surendra Lakra, conducted a thorough spot inspection of the damaged vessel.
The inspection was meticulous. Officials collected crucial evidence, including several photographs of the wreckage and paint samples from the impacted areas of the trawler. They also documented photographs of stones and cement blocks, which were allegedly hurled at the Indian vessel according to the initial complaint filed.
Eyewitness Accounts and Fishermen's Anguish
Beyond the physical evidence, the Coast Guard team actively engaged with the human element of the tragedy. They held interactions with the fishermen who were eyewitnesses to the incident, gathering firsthand accounts of the collision. The team also spoke with the owner of FB Paramita-11 to understand the complete sequence of events.
Of the 16 Indian fishermen on board the trawler at the time of the accident, 11 were successfully rescued. In a somber update, the bodies of two of the missing fishermen have been recovered so far, highlighting the fatal consequences of the maritime incident.
A Step Towards Restoring Confidence
The proactive investigation has been welcomed by the fishing community. Satinath Patra, the secretary of the Sundarban Marine Fishermen Workers' Union, expressed a positive view of the Coast Guard's initiative. He stated that such actions are vital to restore confidence among the agitated fishermen whose livelihoods and lives are constantly at risk.
"This is not just an accident; it is a question of our safety and survival," Patra emphasized, underscoring the grave concerns of the community. He also indicated that the Coast Guard team might revisit the site if required, suggesting an ongoing commitment to the case.
The incident underscores the persistent dangers faced by fishermen operating in border waters and the critical role of maritime security agencies in safeguarding lives and conducting thorough probes to prevent future tragedies.
