Defense News

India

A Sri Lankan fisherman found himself in a perilous situation when his boat experienced engine failure and drifted into Indian waters. The distress call reached the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) of the Indian Coast Guard in Chennai on April 1, prompting immediate action.

The Sri Lankan Fishing Vessel (SLFV) named 'Kalpeni' had set sail from a fishing harbor in Sri Lanka on March 22 with six crew members. However, communication ceased on March 28, and it was suspected that the boat drifted into Indian waters due to prevailing wind and drift patterns.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Indian Coast Guard deployed its ships to search the area and requested nearby merchant vessels to assist in locating the stranded boat. Eventually, the SLFV was spotted by the ICG ship C-449 on April 2, approximately 40 nautical miles from Puducherry harbor.

Efforts were made to repair the engine of the stranded vessel, and the crew's essential supplies were assessed. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan authorities were notified of the situation and urged to arrange for a tow back to the base port.

Unfortunately, on April 5, one crew member, PM Sumit Lalitha, aged 44, developed a severe heart condition, necessitating immediate medical attention. The Indian Coast Guard swiftly dispatched the ICGS Rani Abakka to evacuate the patient.

After receiving basic medical treatment onboard, the patient was airlifted by an advanced light helicopter (ALH) DHRUV to the Coast Guard air station in Chennai. Following an initial medical examination, he was transported for further treatment in a hospital in Chennai.

Throughout the ordeal, the Indian Coast Guard maintained close communication with the drifting Sri Lankan boat and coordinated with Sri Lankan authorities to facilitate its safe return to the base port.

This successful rescue operation underscores the Indian Coast Guard's commitment to safeguarding lives at sea, a testament to their motto, "We Protect."