Kollam: The Kerala government will formulate a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) within two weeks to streamline emergency response protocols for sea-related accidents, State Fisheries Minister V E Abdul Gafoor announced on Tuesday.

Speaking to journalists in Kollam after meeting the grieving family of Gautam Krishna—one of three fishermen who disappeared following separate boating tragedies off the Kerala coast—Abdul Gafoor confirmed that joint search operations were ongoing despite bringing no breakthroughs thus far.

"It is unfortunate that the search has not yielded any results so far. The search mission is continuing," he said.

The extensive search mission entered its 12th consecutive day on Tuesday, driven by a coordinated effort involving the Indian Navy, Coastal Police, Indian Coast Guard, and the Marine Enforcement Wing.

Highlighting the critical window following sea mishaps, the minister emphasised that the upcoming SOP would focus heavily on swift action during the vital early stages of an incident.

"The family expressed satisfaction over the ongoing search mission. However, they pointed out the need for an emergency response during the golden hour. Within two weeks, the government will frame an SOP in this regard," Abdul Gafoor said.

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Addressing the need for technological upgrades, Abdul Gafoor noted that the state intends to modernise its search and rescue capabilities by deploying advanced equipment, including specialised drones, underwater surveillance cameras, and high-speed rescue vessels.

When questioned about earlier discontent from the family regarding the delay in his personal visit, the minister clarified that his priority during the initial days was directing search and rescue logistics on the ground. He added that Forest and Wildlife Minister Shibu Baby John, who represents the local constituency, had been offering support to the family since day one.

The tragic incident occurred on July 31, when Gautam Krishna went missing in a boat mishap off Neendakara in Kollam—a tragedy that also claimed the lives of his father and grandfather. Chief Minister V D Satheesan, along with Minister Shibu Baby John, had visited the family home in Neendakara on Monday to console Gautam's mother.

The ongoing search operations are also seeking two other fishermen, John and Shijin, who vanished in separate maritime accidents on the same day at Vizhinjam and Muthalappozhi in Thiruvananthapuram district. (PTI)