Warangal: The Godavari River has long been the lifeline for the local fishermen community here, supporting generations through fishing and related occupations. Historically, people from Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh would cross into Telangana at Kaleshwaram in traditional bamboo boats, providing a steady source of income for the community.
However, the construction of an inter-state bridge in 2016 drastically reduced this mode of transport. Undeterred, the fishermen shifted focus to fishing and then introduced motorised boats with varying seating capacities to serve the devotees and tourists visiting the renowned Sri Mukteswara Swamy temple, situated at the Triveni Sangamam where the Godavari, Pranahita, and Saraswati rivers converge.
Talking to Deccan Chronicle, community leader P. Babu revealed that over 150 families still rely on the river for their livelihood. They work in rotation, sharing daily responsibilities to maintain their boats and ensure safe transport for visitors. “Earlier, we used traditional boats to ferry people; now we are also using mini-motor boats,” he said, noting that they continue to operate safely even during high water flow.
Another member, N. Pochanna, said the fishermen often save people who face danger while bathing or attempting self-harm in the river. Their services are also sought by the district administration during major events, such as Maha Shivaratri festivities and Ganesh idol immersions.
Fisherman T. Santosh pointed out that devotees from Maharashtra and Telangana sometimes prefer travelling by boat for ceremonial baths on both sides of the river. Tourists visiting Kaleshwaram also use boats for “Hasthi Visarjan” rituals and leisure rides, helping sustain the community’s income.
Members of the fishermen community have appealed to local minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu and the Congress government to provide financial assistance, including additional fishing and tourist boats under state schemes. They believe such support will help them continue their traditional occupation and serve the visitors who flock to this sacred site.
