Alphons for protocol to prevent boat mishaps in future

New Delhi, Nov 17: Expressing concern over the tragic death of 21 tourists in a boat mishap at Krishna River in Andhra Pradesh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism KJ Alphons on Friday shot off a letter to the Chief Ministers of all the states and Lt Governors/Administrators of the Union Territories, requesting them to put in place a proper protocol, so that in future such incidents do not take place.  In the letter, Mr Alphons said the Chief Ministers and Lt Governors should meet and discuss anonymously on the probability of a national protocol, so as to prevent such incidents in future.The Minister expressed his astonishment at the fact that the boat in which the tourists were ferried, had no licence and was overcrowded beyond capacity. The boat also lacked security equipment like life jackets on board, which was a gross violation of basic stipulations, a statement said here. At least 22 people had died after an overcrowded boat capsized in river Krishna at Pavitrasangamam of Andhra Pradesh, on November 12. UNI