Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema District Collector R. Mahesh Kumar has asked officials to check the safety of punts and boats on the Godavari River. This comes after a punt carrying 80 passengers got stranded between Narsapuram and Sakhinetipalli Revu due to a technical problem. The service was restored within 48 hours. Mr. Mahesh Kumar said, "Officials from the Panchayat Raj, Irrigation and Ports Departments will assess the safety of the punts operating across the Godavari river at three locations - Sompalli, Sakhinetipalli Revu, Kotipalli." He added that in other areas, engine boats ferry passengers. All boat operators must get permission from irrigation or port authorities. He warned that strict action will be taken against those running boats without these permissions.