Report: ICG and PMSA Jointly Rescue 12 Indian Seafarers
In a remarkable display of international cooperation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued 12 Indian crew members from the sunken vessel MSV Al Piranpir in the North Arabian Sea on December1 4, 2024. The operation was carried out in coordination with the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA), highlighting the importance of cross-border collaboration in maritime emergencies.
The Incident
The mechanized sailing vessel (dhow) Al Piranpir, which had departed from Porbandar, Gujarat, India, and was en route to Bandar Abbas, Iran, encountered severe distress in the rough seas of the North Arabian Sea. The vessel, carrying a crew of 12 Indian nationals, eventually sank, leaving the crew stranded in the turbulent waters.
The Rescue Operation
The Indian Coast Guard, alerted to the distress situation, immediately initiated a search and rescue operation. The ICG’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai closely monitored the situation and coordinated with the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency’s MRCC to ensure a swift and effective response.
The joint operation involved the deployment of various assets, including aircraft and ships, from both the Indian and Pakistani sides. The Indian Coast Guard ship, ICGS Sarthak, played a crucial role in the rescue effort. The ship’s crew, equipped with advanced search and rescue equipment, scanned the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea to locate the distressed crew members.
The Pakistani Maritime Security Agency also contributed significantly to the operation by providing valuable assistance in the form of aerial surveillance and communication support. The joint effort between the two countries underscored the importance of regional cooperation in maritime security and humanitarian assistance.
The Rescue
After hours of intense search and rescue efforts, the Indian Coast Guard ship ICGS Sarthak successfully located the 12 crew members of the sunken vessel. The crew members, who had abandoned ship due to the severe weather conditions, were found clinging to life rafts and debris.
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The ICG ship’s crew swiftly deployed rescue boats to bring the survivors aboard. Once on board, the rescued crew members were provided with medical attention and essential supplies. They were also offered psychological counseling to help them cope with the traumatic experience.
A Testament to International Cooperation
The successful rescue operation is a testament to the strong cooperation between the Indian and Pakistani maritime agencies. The joint effort not only saved the lives of 12 Indian sailors but also demonstrated the importance of international collaboration in addressing maritime challenges.
The incident also highlights the risks faced by seafarers, particularly those operating in challenging weather conditions. It underscores the need for robust safety measures and emergency response protocols to minimize the impact of maritime accidents.
Conclusion
The Indian Coast Guard’s successful rescue of 12 Indian crew members from the sunken vessel Al Piranpir is a remarkable achievement. The operation, carried out in coordination with the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, showcased the power of international cooperation in saving lives at sea. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maritime safety and the need for preparedness to respond to emergencies effectively.
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