A boatman saves lives of 200 children and gets killed

Khammam, Andhra Pradesh, Aug 12 (UNI) A boatman in Bhadrachalam division of river Godavari lost his life when he got electrocuted after he saved 200 school children and was on his way to rescue some more.

Edukondalu, the boatman, went to a school in his boat to rescue 200 children trapped in Sasi Vihar, a private school, due to flash floods. He rescued all of them and as he went in search of other stranded people, he came in contact with a live power cable and got electrocuted. His body was found yesterday.

The district Collector Sasi Bhushan Kumar today announced an immediate exgratia of Rs 10,000 for the boatman's family.

Mr Kumar said the usual relief package for 'flood victims' families would also be given to the family members of the deceased.

Edukondalu supported his aged parents, wife and two children and the poor family is now shattered.

However, help is pouring from all quarters for the family of the valiant boatman. A doctor from Khammam visited Edukondalu's family and gave Rs 10,000.

UNI JRK PR HT1752