New Delhi, 30 June (H.S.):

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued six fishermen from the Indian fishing boat Manju Matha after it was caught in severe weather conditions off the coast of Mangaluru, Karnataka, on Sunday evening.

The Indian Coast Guard said on Tuesday that all six fishermen were rescued during a challenging maritime search and rescue operation after the vessel began taking on large amounts of water due to rough sea conditions, placing the lives of all crew members at serious risk. Despite the adverse weather, ICG Ship Sachet carried out the rescue approximately 33 nautical miles off the coast.

Commandant Amit Uniyal said that at around 4:00 p.m. on June 29, ICG Ship Sachet intercepted a distress call from the fishing vessel about 33 nautical miles off the Surathkal coast. The distress message reported severe flooding and hull damage caused by rough seas, leaving all six crew members in imminent danger.

Responding immediately, the Coast Guard diverted the ship to the distress location and reached the vessel within 90 minutes.

Commandant Uniyal said the rescue operation was conducted under extremely challenging weather conditions, including very rough seas, strong winds, poor visibility, and darkness. These conditions demanded exceptional seamanship, precision, and close coordination from the rescue team.

Despite these challenges, the crew of ICG Ship Sachet executed the mission with remarkable professionalism. Demonstrating determination and making effective use of advanced rescue technology, the team deployed remotely operated lifebuoys specially designed for use in rough sea conditions to safely reach and rescue the stranded fishermen.

By 6:00 p.m., all six crew members had been rescued safely and without injuries, Commandant Uniyal said.

Following the successful rescue, the fishermen were transported to New Mangalore for safe disembarkation and completion of the necessary formalities.

The operation underscored the courage, training, and professionalism of Indian Coast Guard personnel, as well as their effective use of modern technology in responding to complex maritime emergencies. The Indian Coast Guard continues to maintain constant vigilance over India's maritime domain and provides timely assistance to those in distress at sea.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar