Bhubaneswar: The Indian Coast Guard rescued eight people from a stranded fishing boat, Yohana Devudu, off Odisha coast. The boat has now been towed to safety at Paradip in Jagatsinghpur district.

The boat, which ventured into sea on June 21 for fishing, lost contact since June 26. The Assistant Director (Fisheries), Kakinda intimated the Indian Coast Guard on July 5 to locate the missing boat with non-operational engine and rudder, an official statement said.

“In yet another challenging operation, the Indian Coast Guard has swiftly rescued 08 precious lives off Odisha coast from stranded Fishing Boat Yohana Devudu (Registration No. IND-AP-E2-MM-735). As per the information received, the boat owner lost contact since 26 June while  the boat ventured into sea on 21 June for fishing,” said  a release by the Indian Coast Guard on Sunday.

"On establishing the prevailing weather/sea condition to be non-conducive accompanied with heavy swell and strong winds, ICGS Sarojini Naidu commenced towing operation at 1810 Hrs on 06 Jul 19 to ensure safety of 08 crew. The ship safety brought the IFB under tow off Paradip and entered Paradip Harbour at 0715 Hrs on 07 July," the release added.