The incident marks a grim turn in a rescue operation that began when five fishermen ventured into the tank in Sathupalli mandal to set up fishing nets and became stranded in a strong current. What started as a routine evacuation spiraled into a multi-agency emergency when the very teams sent to save others found themselves swept away in the turbulent waters of the overflowing reservoir.
Two Boats Overturn in Khammam’s Swollen Tank
Their boat developed a technical snag, leaving them stranded in the water.
The team set out in two boats to rescue both the stranded firefighters and the fishermen.
The tank was overflowing following heavy rainfall, and ThePrint reported that Khammam district, which neighbors Andhra Pradesh, has been receiving rains under the impact of cyclone ‘Murasu’. The Hindu described the conditions as strong winds and powerful currents in the swollen Peddacheruvu, with the incident occurring on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in the evening.
NDRF Teams and Drones Join the Search at Bethupalli
Additional National Disaster Response Force personnel from Bhadrachalam were requisitioned to strengthen the search and rescue operation.
Deccan Chronicle reported that divers and trained swimmers were pressed into service to trace the missing personnel, and that a large number of local residents gathered near the lake, creating a tense atmosphere.
He instructed them to use advanced technology to trace the mobile phone locations of those whose whereabouts were unknown, and personally spoke over the phone with the fishermen trapped in the tank to enquire about their situation, Deccan Chronicle reported.
Preliminary information indicated that all five fishermen trapped in the tank were safe, though The Hindu noted the search and rescue operation continued until reports last came in on Wednesday night.
Chief Minister and Union Minister Direct Rescue Operations
Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar stepped in to expedite efforts, directing the deployment of NDRF personnel for the rescue operation. Bandi Sanjay Kumar said the government was closely monitoring the situation and remaining in constant coordination with the authorities to ensure the safe return of everyone involved.
As of Wednesday night, efforts were continuing to trace the missing rescue personnel, with no confirmed reports of their whereabouts or condition.
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