Goa, 27 July 2023

 

The Indian Coast Guard demonstrated efficiency and rapid response in a daring rescue operation that saved 36 lives and prevented a potential environmental catastrophe. The Research Vessel 'Sindhu Sadhana,' belonging to CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), was in distress and perilously drifting towards Karwar, carrying eight scientists and a total crew of 36 individuals. The ship had encountered an engine and total power failure, rendering it motionless and at the mercy of the sea's currents. The distress signal was received at the Coast Guard District Headquarters in Goa at approximately 1300 hrs on July 26, 2023.

The situation was critical as the 'Sindhu Sadhana' was equipped with valuable scientific instruments and carried crucial research data. Furthermore, the vessel's proximity to the ecologically sensitive Karwar coastline posed an imminent threat of grounding, which could have resulted in a major oil spill, causing devastating pollution to the pristine marine environment.

Responding swiftly to the distress call, the Indian Coast Guard launched a high-priority rescue mission, dispatching two advanced Ships, ICGS Sujeet and ICGS Varaha, along with skilled teams to the area. Recognizing the potential magnitude of the disaster, the Indian Coast Guard promptly initiated measures to safeguard the Ship, protect the fragile ecosystem, and prevent the vessel from running aground.

Despite facing extreme weather conditions in the area, with a sea state of 5-6 and winds gusting up to 45 knots, the Indian Coast Guard pressed ahead with the operation to tow the distressed CSIR-NIO vessel. Towing a ship under such challenging circumstances required immense skill and determination, but ICGS Sujeet successfully took the 'Sindhu Sadhana' under tow, and both ships are currently en route to Goa, expected to reach Mormugao harbor on the morning of 28th July. The crew onboard the CSIR-NIO research vessel is safe and sound.

 

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