Mangaluru, June 30 (IANS) In a swift maritime search and rescue operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Ship Sachet saved six lives after a fishing boat flooded in rough seas off Mangaluru, officials said on Tuesday.

The ICG mentioned that the incident occurred on Monday, when the fishing boat IFB Manju Matha sustained hull damage and began to flood in rough seas.

“Responding without delay, ICG immediately diverted a ship to render assistance, effecting a rendezvous with the distressed vessel within 90 minutes. The rescue operation was carried out under extremely weather conditions,” officials said in a statement.

“Rough seas, strong winds, poor visibility and approaching darkness significantly complicated the mission, demanding exceptional seamanship, precision, and coordination from the rescue team. Despite these formidable challenges, the crew of ICGS Sachet executed the operation with remarkable efficiency,” they added.

With the help of advanced rescue technology, the ICG team deployed remotely operated lifebuoys specifically designed for use in inclement sea conditions to safely reach and recover the stranded fishermen.

By 6:00 p.m., all six crew members were rescued safely and without injury. Following the successful recovery, ICGS Sachet is currently entering New Mangalore for the safe disembarkation of the rescued crew and the completion of further formalities, officials said.

“The operation stands as a testament to the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding life at sea. It highlights the effective integration of modern technology with the courage, training, and professionalism of Coast Guard personnel in overcoming the most demanding maritime emergencies. The Indian Coast Guard remains steadfast in its motto, ‘Vayam Rakshamah’ (We Protect), continuing to maintain constant vigil over India’s maritime domain and ensuring timely assistance to those in distress at sea,” the ICG said.

Earlier, on June 27, the ICG successfully responded to a distress situation involving cargo vessel MV SITTHAA after it developed flooding in multiple compartments off the coast of Tiruchendur in Tamil Nadu, deploying a specialist boarding team to assist in emergency stabilisation operations.

The vessel reported flooding in several compartments while sailing off the Tamil Nadu coast. Responding swiftly to the distress call, the Coast Guard dispatched ICG Ship Atulya to the location to provide immediate assistance and help prevent the situation from escalating.

In a post shared on X, the Indian Coast Guard detailed the rescue operation and the coordinated efforts undertaken to safeguard the vessel, its crew and the surrounding marine environment.

“Responding swiftly to a distress call from MV SITTHAA due to flooding in multiple compartments whilst off Tiruchendur (Tamil Nadu) on 27 Jun 26, India Coast Guard ship Atulya rendered immediate assistance,” it said.

Providing further details of the operation, the Coast Guard said its personnel remained actively involved throughout the emergency response while maintaining close coordination with all stakeholders.

“ICG’s specialist boarding team coordinated with salvage experts, monitored emergency repairs and dewatering operations & ensured flooding remained under control. Vessel advised to proceed to Tuticorin Port for sustainable repairs with ICG maintaining close coordination with Master, salvage company and Port authorities to ensure safety of crew, vessel and marine environment,” it added.

–IANS

sd/