Umesh Marpalli

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (EP)

Udupi, Feb 8: The 23-meter long remnant found in the sea, while conducting search operations for missing boat Suvarna Tribhuja was actually stone, confirm reliable sources.

Initially it was reported that remains of a ship were found while conducting search operations from a navy ship using sonar technology. The sonar showed a 23 metre long remnant at a depth of 60 metres and it was suspected to be the remains of the missing boat as the boat is approximately 23-foot long. Search was then conducted through 3D mapping by diving experts.

However, police officials are not divulging any details. They say that they cannot say anything until report from the navy is received.

Missing boat Suvarna Tribhuja

Fishermen from Belekeri had spotted a cabin floating in the sea near Rathnagiri, Maharashtra and clicked its pictures and informed coastal protection force their suspicions that it may be a part of Suvarna Tribhuja. Police conducted investigations. However, families of the fishermen have clarified that the cabin does not belong to the missing fishing boat.

There are no clues of Suvarna Thribhuja boat after it went missing 54 days ago from Malpe. The families of five missing fishermen have submitted a request to Uttara Kannada deputy commissioner, expressing their displeasure that the government is not presenting a clear picture on the case.

Deputy Commissioner S S Nakul said that the case is being investigated by a committee headed by the IGP. “The navy is also conducting its operations,” he said.

“The state and union governments are boasting about their technologies. But they are unable to trace a missing boat. What does it mean?” asked Nithyananda, brother of missing fisherman, Chandrashekar in anguish. Fishermen in Malpe and Uttar Kannada have warned of another protest if the government fails to conduct suitable operations and provide details.