Kishan calls for framing of rules to prevent boat tragedies

Rajamahendravaram: Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy has stressed the need to frame a policy to ensure that there are no boat mishaps in the river Godavari. Boat accidents are taking place not only in Andhra Pradesh but also elsewhere in the country.

Addressing a media conference at Roads and Buildings guest house here on Sunday, he said the State government has constituted an expert committee to go into the accidents and suggest ways to avert mishaps.

Earlier reviewing the rescue operations, the Union Minister also underlined the importance of imparting training to the boat drivers. There is a need to frame rules to ensure that the boats are in good condition and they are steered by trained drivers, he said.

The Centre would study the recommendations and give necessary suggestions after the committee submitting its report to State government. Earlier also two boats accidents happened at Kacchulurumanda, he said. He stressed the need to take stringent action against the guilty and ensure that the boats are in good condition. The officials should ensure that the crew in the boats provide life jackets to the tourists.

Kishan Reddy said salvaging the sunken boat is a complicated task as sand and mud got deposited at the accident spot. The State government is making all efforts to salvage the ill-fated boat.

The Union Minister said he would take to the notice of the Union Home Minister the boat tragedy. The Centre is ready to extend any help to the State government in this regard. He asked the officials to inform the Central officials what help they needed. Coast Guard, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Navy teams are participating in the rescue operations, he added.

Collector B Muralidhar Reddy said rescue operations are continuing. The conditions at the accidents in the river are very dangerous because of strong currents. for ways and means in this regard.Deputy Chief Minister Pilli Subash Chandra Bose, MLC Somu Virraju and MLA Jakkampudi Raja were present.