NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, AUG 7
Indian Coast Guard rescued a fishing vessel saving 14 precious lives at sea off Nagapattinam, at 88 nautical miles, undertaking a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission, said a release from Defence PRO.
Tuticorin based fishing boat GN Sabari with 14 crew ventured into sea on August 4. Due to machinery breakdown, the vessel started drifting. A merchant ship sighted the stranded vessel and relayed the information to Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Chennai.
Upon receipt of information, Indian Coast Guard Ship Shaurya was diverted to provide necessary assistance. The fishing vessel was observed having machinery breakdown and damaged propeller. It was dangerously drifting due to the rough weather caused by the South West Monsoon.
The crew sensed a sigh of relief upon sighting the Coast Guard ship. The fishing vessel was towed by the Coast Guard Ship to the nearest fishing harbour, Nagapattinam for repairs on the late evening on August 5.
During this rescue mission, the Coast Guard officials were in constant communication with the boat owner and the office of the Fisheries Department of Tamilnadu.
Indian Coast Guard issues regular advisories to undertake fishing in groups adhering to safe practices at sea and carry adequate lifesaving appliances and communication equipment onboard, the release added.
