Andhra Pradesh: Nearly 40 boats gutted in fire at Visakhapatnam fishing harbour

VISHAKAPATNAM: A massive fire broke out at the Visakhapatnam fishing harbour on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday, police said.

Nearly 40 fiber-mechanized boats were reduced to ashes, said police, adding that no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident.

Firefighters were alerted by locals, who promptly arrived at the scene to extinguish the fire.

The fire, which started with one boat, quickly spread to others in the vicinity, said the official.

Local fishermen suspect foul play, alleging that unknown individuals may have intentionally set the boats on fire.

#WATCH | Andhra Pradesh: A massive fire broke out in Visakhapatnam fishing harbour. The fire that started with the first boat eventually spread to 40 boats. Several fire tenders reached the spot to control the fire. Police have registered a case and are investigating the matter.… pic.twitter.com/1ZYgiWInOz

— ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2023

Also, the police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Visakhapatnam, Anand Reddy, said, “The fire broke out on a boat at Vishakhapatnam fishing harbour and then spread to nearly 35 fiber-mechanized boats at midnight. The police and fire teams responded immediately. The fire was successfully brought under control. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. No casualties or injuries were reported in the incident. An FIR has been filed and an investigation is underway.”

#WATCH | Andhra Pradesh: Morning visuals from Visakhapatnam fishing harbour where a massive fire broke out last night. Fire tenders are engaged in controlling the fire. pic.twitter.com/YIM4enPNIq

— ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2023

Further details are awaited. (ANI)