Three fishermen die of suspected toxic gas inhalation at Tadadi harbour

Mangaluru: Three fishermen died after allegedly suffocating while cleaning a fish storage compartment inside a boat at Tadadi fishing harbour near Gokarna in Uttara Kannada district on Tuesday. Two other fishermen were rescued, but one of them was reported to be in critical condition.

The deceased have been identified as Naushad, 48, Ameen, 40, and Aman, 26. The incident occurred after the crew of a boat named Kuchima returned to the harbour with their catch.

According to preliminary information, the fishermen had brought a catch of fish identified as the Chaman variety to the harbour. After unloading the fish and ice, some crew members entered the storage compartment located in the lower section of the boat to clean it.

They reportedly encountered a strong, foul-smelling atmosphere inside the enclosed compartment. Toxic gases believed to have accumulated from decomposing fish waste and related residues are suspected to have caused breathing difficulties, leaving the fishermen unconscious.

Three fishermen died in the incident, while two others were rescued and taken for medical assistance. One of the survivors was said to be in a serious condition.

The incident has raised concerns about the dangers of entering enclosed fish storage compartments without ensuring adequate ventilation and checking for hazardous gases. Decomposing organic matter in confined spaces can create a potentially life-threatening environment.

Gokarna police have registered a case and launched an investigation to establish the exact circumstances leading to the deaths. The nature of the gases present inside the compartment and the precise cause of death are yet to be officially confirmed.

The bodies are expected to undergo the necessary medical and legal procedures as part of the investigation. Further details are awaited from the police and relevant authorities.