IndianCoastGuard – Coast Guard Rescues Six Fishermen After Boat Suffers Damage Near Mangaluru
IndianCoastGuard – A swift response by the Indian Coast Guard helped save six fishermen after their fishing vessel encountered severe trouble in rough waters off the Karnataka coast on Monday evening. The rescue mission, carried out near Mangaluru, highlighted the force’s preparedness to respond to maritime emergencies even under difficult weather conditions.
Distress Call Triggered Immediate Response
According to the Indian Coast Guard, the emergency unfolded at around 4:00 pm when Coast Guard Ship Sachet picked up a distress message over VHF radio from the Indian Fishing Boat Manju Matha. The vessel was located nearly 33 nautical miles off the Suratkal coast and had suffered significant hull damage, resulting in rapid flooding due to turbulent sea conditions. With water entering the boat and weather deteriorating, all six fishermen on board faced an immediate threat.
Recognising the seriousness of the situation, the Coast Guard redirected ICGS Sachet towards the distressed vessel without delay. The rescue ship reached the location in nearly 90 minutes despite challenging sea conditions.
Harsh Weather Added to Rescue Challenges
The operation was conducted under extremely demanding circumstances. Strong winds, rough waves, fading daylight and reduced visibility made navigation and rescue efforts considerably more difficult. These factors required precise coordination, careful planning and experienced seamanship from the Coast Guard personnel involved in the mission.
Despite the obstacles, the rescue team maintained steady communication and carefully assessed the safest approach to evacuate the stranded fishermen while minimising risks to everyone involved.
Advanced Equipment Helped Save Lives
To safely recover the fishermen, the Coast Guard deployed remote-operated lifebuoys designed specifically for rescue operations in adverse sea conditions. The specialised equipment enabled rescuers to reach the crew members without exposing them to additional danger from the rough waters.
The coordinated effort proved successful, and by around 6:00 pm, all six fishermen had been brought safely aboard ICGS Sachet. Officials confirmed that none of the rescued crew members sustained injuries during the operation.
Fishermen Brought Safely to New Mangalore
Following the successful rescue, ICGS Sachet proceeded towards New Mangalore Port to disembark the rescued fishermen safely. Necessary post-rescue procedures and official formalities are expected to be completed after the vessel reaches the harbour.
The Coast Guard stated that ensuring the safety and well-being of those rescued remains a priority before further assessments of the damaged fishing boat are carried out.
Coast Guard Reaffirms Maritime Safety Commitment
Officials said the rescue operation reflects the Indian Coast Guard’s continuous focus on protecting lives at sea through rapid response, trained personnel and the effective use of modern rescue technology. The mission also demonstrated the organisation’s capability to handle emergencies in difficult maritime environments where weather conditions can change rapidly.
The operation reinforces the Coast Guard’s long-standing commitment to maintaining vigilance across India’s coastal waters and providing timely assistance whenever vessels or fishermen face distress. Guided by its motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” or “We Protect,” the force continues to play a vital role in strengthening maritime safety and supporting the country’s fishing community through prompt emergency response.