Balugaon: A trawler fishboat ferrying as many as 17 persons capsized in Chilika lake this evening. The mishap occurred when the boat was returning from Kalijai Peetha to Barakul.

After the boat turned turtle, local fishermen in nearby boats rescued 11 persons. After receiving information, Naval, Fire Services and ODRAF personnel and fishermen have launched rescue operations and rescue six others who were battling for life following the boat mishap.

As per reports, 17 persons from Chandraput, Subudhipatna and Barkula villages were returning home after participating in a feast at Kalijai Peetha when the boat capsized some 12 kms from Barakul.

Police are questioning the trawler driver and booking agent.