One dead as strong winds sink launch

Gale flipped the boat like a toy, leaving 18 crew members at mercy of elements

KARACHI:

In a harrowing incident that unfolded amidst tumultuous weather conditions, a fishing boat capsized due to strong winds, leading to the loss of one life and putting several others in peril. The boat, carrying 18 fishermen, was caught in the ferocious gusts that swept across the open sea.

The incident transpired in the early hours of Monday, throwing a shadow of grief over the coastal community. The vessel, having struggled against the raging elements, succumbed to the force of the winds, leaving its occupants struggling in the turbulent waters. Kamal Shah, the spokesperson for the Coastal Media Center in Ibrahim Hyderi, narrated the tragic tale.

The boat's captain, anticipating the menacing gales, had wisely dropped anchor during the previous night in an effort to secure the vessel. However, as dawn broke, the intensity of the wind only grew stronger. Despite their valiant efforts, the fishermen found themselves at the mercy of the elements.

Tragically, one fisherman, identified as Qasim, lost his life in the calamity. His story paints a heartbreaking picture of perseverance against adversity. Already burdened by the weight of debts owed to loan sharks, Qasim had been seeking to carve out a livelihood by toiling on fishing boats.

The rest of the crew suffered varying degrees of injuries, with the captain of the boat among the injured. Some of them even lost consciousness due to the impact of the capsizing. The severity of the situation was magnified by the fact that the incident occurred far from the shore, leaving the fishermen battling not only the waves but also time.

Another group of fishermen, onboard a separate vessel, witnessed the disaster unfold and swiftly sounded the alarm. Their prompt action enabled colleagues waiting at the nearby jetty to take immediate action. They rallied together, racing to the scene in their boats to initiate rescue efforts. With their selflessness, they managed to retrieve the survivors from the treacherous waters and bring them safely to shore. Tragically, despite their efforts, they could only recover Qasim's lifeless body from the unforgiving sea.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 8^th, 2023.