Thiruvananthapuram, 11 August (H.S.):The body of a fisherman who went missing after falling from a fishing boat into the backwaters at Muthalapozhi in Thiruvananthapuram district was recovered early on Tuesday.

The deceased has been identified as Praveen, a native of Anchuthengu. His body was found in the early hours following an extensive search operation involving local fishermen and Fire and Rescue Services personnel.

The accident occurred on Monday when Praveen and other fishermen were returning after fishing. According to preliminary information, the boat had crossed the Muthalapozhi harbour mouth and was entering the backwaters when Praveen reportedly suffered a seizure and fell overboard.

Other fishermen immediately launched a search in the area after he disappeared in the water. Local fishermen joined the operation and searched the surrounding stretches of the backwaters in an effort to locate him.

Fire and Rescue Services personnel were subsequently alerted, and a scuba diving team was deployed to assist in the search. The operation continued for several hours, with rescuers combing the area until late at night.

However, despite the prolonged search, Praveen could not be located on Monday, prompting the authorities and fishermen to resume efforts early on Tuesday.

His body was eventually recovered from the backwaters in the early morning, bringing the search operation to an end.

Muthalapozhi is a major fishing harbour area in Thiruvananthapuram district, with a large number of fishing boats using the harbour mouth and adjoining backwaters every day.

The latest incident has once again drawn attention to the risks faced by fishermen operating in and around the harbour and its waterways.

Further procedures, including the inquest and post-mortem examination, are expected to be carried out before the body is handed over to the family.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman