Three Fishermen Die After Suspected Toxic Gas Leak at Tadri Port, Two Hospitalised
The fishermen reportedly collapsed while cleaning a fish storage compartment aboard a boat near Gokarna. One of the two survivors is in critical condition.
Gokarna (Fikrokhabar News): Three fishermen died and two others fell ill after reportedly inhaling toxic gas while cleaning a fish storage compartment aboard a fishing boat at Tadri Port near Gokarna on Tuesday evening.
The incident occurred aboard a purse seine fishing boat named Kuzaima, which was docked at the port after returning from a fishing trip. The crew had caught a fish locally known as Chaman. After unloading the catch, the fishermen entered the fish hold to clean it when they suddenly experienced breathing difficulties and collapsed.
Police suspect that gases released by decomposing fish or a lack of oxygen inside the enclosed compartment may have caused the tragedy. However, the exact cause is yet to be established through an investigation.
The deceased have been identified as Naushad, 37, Bhava Amin, 39, and Aman Langado, 20. Naushad was from Hini Kaggal, Bhava Amin from Hubbanagiri, and Aman Langado from Vannalli. All three belonged to Kumta taluk.
The two survivors, Abdul Yakub Gari, 64, and Khadir, 35, were also affected in the incident. Abdul Yakub, a resident of Betkuli, was reported to be in critical condition and was shifted to Manipal Hospital for further treatment. Khadir, who hails from Santeguli, received treatment at the Gokarna Primary Health Centre and has reportedly recovered.
People present at the port rushed to help the affected fishermen, bringing them out of the compartment and taking them to hospital.
Following the incident, a police team led by Gokarna Police Inspector Sridhar S. R. visited the spot and conducted an inspection. Police said further legal action would be initiated after registering a case based on a complaint from the families of the deceased.
The tragedy has caused concern among fishermen and others in the Tadri Port area.
What Is Chaman Fish?
Chaman is understood to be a type of fish caught for commercial purposes and used by fishmeal industries to produce various byproducts.
When fish remain in a storage compartment for an extended period, decomposing organic matter may release hazardous gases. Enclosed spaces can also become dangerous when oxygen levels fall. Entering such compartments without proper safety precautions can lead to serious injury or death.
Investigators will determine whether toxic gas accumulation or oxygen deficiency was responsible for the deaths at Tadri Port.