Capsize: Confusion over jurisdiction causes delay in rescue

According to official sources, the trawler capsized at around 11:00 am in South 24 Parganas district, but it took quite a while for rescue operations to start with the first rescue trawler sailing from Kakdwip at around 3:00 pm.

"The Talpatti area, the exact place of occurrence, falls under neighbouring East Midnapore district and so they can give the real picture of the rescue operation and the toll," South 24 Pargans Superintendent of Police L N Meena had told PTI initially.

Later, East Midnapore District Magistrate Archana Meena told PTI, "We have sent marine police, Coast Guards and hovercraft for the rescue operation, but we cannot give the toll because the place of occurrence falls under South 24 Parganas."

South 24 Parganas District Magistrate N S Nigam said, "Though the area falls under East Midnapore, we are doing our best to rescue the people. We sent one trawler for the rescue operation and will be sending more if needed."

Asked about the probable reason behind the mishap, Nigam said, "the trawler was overcrowded, but more importantly the current of the Muriganga river was very strong."