Udupi: Five fishermen rescued after Malpe fishing boat sinks mid-sea

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Nov 21, 2025: Five fishermen had a narrow escape after their Malpe-based fishing boat sank mid-sea. All of them were rescued in time, though the incident resulted in the loss of fish, nets, equipment and other materials worth several lakh rupees.

The ill-fated boat, Veerakalkuda, owned by Ravindra N. Poojary of Sastana Kodikanyana, had left Malpe port on the evening of November 17 with a tandel and four fishermen. The crew carried out fishing operations through the Panambur NMPA port and Tannirbhavi route and continued their activities on November 18, fishing around 17 nautical miles west of Mangaluru.

On November 19, strong waves reportedly struck the bottom of the vessel, damaging its fibre structure and causing water to rush in. As the boat began to sink, fishermen aboard the nearby vessel Veera Maruti quickly responded, rescuing all five crew members and bringing them safely ashore.

The boat went down completely along with 10 nets, diesel, ice blocks, fish worth Rs 60,000, GPS and other electronic equipment, and five mobile phones. The total loss is estimated at around Rs 35 lakh. A complaint has been filed at the Mangaluru Coastal Security Police Station.