The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted a successful rescue operation on Wednesday to save the crew of the fishing boat Aashni, which was stranded 80 nautical miles off the Kochi coast. The rescue mission was launched amidst challenging weather conditions exacerbated by heavy rainfall, as announced by the Ministry of Defence.
The distress call was answered after an Indian Coast Guard ICG Dornier aircraft, engaged in maritime surveillance, spotted the distressed boat. A swift response followed, with the ICG deploying the patrol ship Saksham and later, the vessel Abhinav, along with an Advanced Light Helicopter for aerial support.
The Aashni was facing critical issues including hull rupture and propulsion failure, leaving its 11-member crew in imminent danger. A technical team from the coast guard managed to board the boat, initiating de-flooding operations while providing essential technical assistance, fresh water, and rations to the crew members battling rough seas and torrential rains.
Following the successful rescue operation, the fishing boat was handed over to the Fisheries Department for further assistance and inspection.
This operation marks another instance of the ICG’s commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime territories, as highlighted by the Ministry of Defence. Earlier in May, a similar rescue effort by the ICG off the Goa coast saved 24 tourists and two crew members from a stranded boat amidst challenging sea conditions.
“The operation once again underscored the ICG’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the country’s maritime zones,” stated the Ministry of Defence, emphasizing the crucial role played by the coast guard in maritime rescue operations.