Daijiworld Media Network - Bhatkal

Bhatkal, Jul 30: Four fishermen are missing after their fishing boat capsized in the Arabian Sea off the Bhatkal coast in Uttara Kannada district on Wednesday, officials from the Coastal Security Police confirmed.

The boat, which had six crew members on board, is believed to have overturned amid rough sea conditions triggered by the ongoing monsoon.

Two of the crew members were rescued by nearby fishing boats and have been admitted to Bhatkal Government Hospital for treatment. Their condition is said to be stable.

A massive search and rescue operation has been launched by the Coastal Security Police in coordination with the Indian Coast Guard and the Fisheries Department to locate the missing fishermen. Naval authorities are also on alert.

While the exact cause of the accident remains unverified, officials suspect rough monsoon weather may have played a significant role.

The district administration has issued a cautionary advisory to all fishermen in the region, urging them to avoid venturing into the sea until weather conditions improve.

Search efforts are expected to continue through the night, weather permitting.