Khammam: SDRF personnel feared missing after boats capsize in Bethupalli Lake rescue

Personnel from Telangana's State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are feared missing after boats reportedly capsized in the swollen Bethupalli Lake in Sathupalli, Khammam district. They had gone out to rescue fishermen stranded in floodwaters.

Khammam, which borders Andhra Pradesh, has been getting heavy rain under the influence of cyclone 'Murasu'. The downpour pushed up water levels and left the fishermen trapped, setting off the rescue mission that went wrong.

District Collector Divakara T S and other officials rushed to the site and deployed teams to search for the missing personnel.

Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy said on X that rescue teams have identified the possible location of the missing personnel. He said they would be brought out safely.

Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy asked the Collector to make every effort to rescue the SDRF members, according to an official release. He also directed Chief Secretary Sanjay Jaju to monitor the situation.

Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar said National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed and are working on a war footing. He said he spoke to the Collector and coordinated with senior NDRF officials, adding that authorities are in constant touch to ensure everyone returns safely.

The incident is a stark reminder of the risks first responders face when storms swell inland water bodies. Further updates are awaited on the status of the missing personnel and the stranded fishermen.

Source: ThePrint (PTI)

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