Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Mar 16: After an explosion was experienced at around 5 am on Wednesday March 15 in the engine section of Malpe-based 'Gurudev' trawler boat, the boat caught fire. The boat was engaged in deep sea fishing near Karwar when the incident happened. Boat driver, Anthon D'Costa (46), who suffered burn injuries, as well as the boat he was driving were rescued by Coastal Security Force personnel with the assistance of another boat.

Anthon D'Costa had become very sick due to thick smoke which emanated from the engine, in addition to suffering burn injuries to his hand. SOS messages were then transmitted to nearby boats including the Coastal Security Force. The interceptor staff of Coastal Security Force deployed near Karwar lighthouse rushed to the rescue of the boat. Another boat named 'Shreevasava' also came to help the boat in trouble. The boat was towed to the commercial port at Karwar after which the driver, Anthon, was provided emergency treatment through the '108' ambulance.

The boat which was damaged in this incident is owned by Loknath Kotian from Malpe near here. Its driver, Anthon, hails from Alvekody in Bhatkal. It is gathered that the boat has since been brought here from Karwar.