A mechanized fishing boat owned by Selvalagan, son of Duraikannu, departed Chennai on October 29, 2026, with nine crew members. Following weather warnings regarding Cyclone Murasu, the owner reported the vessel had safely docked in Nizampatnam, Andhra Pradesh. On November 2, the boat attempted to reach Ramayapatnam but suffered engine failure. The crew contacted another vessel via wireless on November 3, after which communication ceased. Search operations were immediately launched by the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department, Indian Coast Guard hovercrafts, a fast patrol vessel, and aircraft, alongside a specialized team sent to Andhra Pradesh.
Tragically, the boat sank in the cyclone, and five bodies were recovered on November 5. Finance Minister and R.K. Nagar MLA coordinated the identification and legal procedures in Andhra Pradesh, while the state government announced a 7 lakh rupee relief package, with an initial 2 lakh rupees released immediately. The bodies were transported to Chennai and returned to their families. Following continued search efforts, the remaining two missing fishermen were also found deceased, and their remains are currently being returned to their families.
Addressing the tragedy, the official expressed deep regret over attempts by opposition parties to politicize the incident. The government remains committed to supporting the bereaved families and is conducting a thorough investigation into the disaster. Enhanced precautionary measures are being implemented by the Fisheries Department to prevent future tragedies.
