Indian Coast Guard
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 12 crew members of the sunken Indian vessel MSV Al Piranpir from the North Arabian Sea in the wee hours of 04 December 2024. This humanitarian search and rescue mission was marked by close collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (MSA), with both nations’ Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) maintaining continuous communication throughout the operation.
The mechanized sailing vessel (dhow) Al Piranpir had departed from Porbandar and was en route to Bandar Abbas, Iran. It reportedly sank in the morning hours of 04 December due to rough seas and flooding. The distress call was received by ICG’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai, which promptly alerted ICG Regional Headquarters (North West) in Gandhinagar. ICG Ship Sarthak was immediately diverted to the reported location. MRCC Pakistan was also contacted to alert mariners in the area, and their assistance was swiftly provided.
ICGS Sarthak deployed for forward area patrolling, proceeded at maximum speed to the probable location and conducted an extensive search operation. The 12 crew members, who had abandoned their vessel and taken refuge in a small dinghy, were located, and rescued approximately 270 km west of Dwarka, within Pakistan’s Search and Rescue Region. The search for survivors was supported by a Pakistan MSA aircraft and the merchant ship MV Cosco Glory.
The Indian Coast Guard’s prompt and coordinated response underscores its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea. This daring rescue operation showcases the ICG’s capabilities and readiness to address maritime emergencies in the region.
ICGS Sarthak
The rescued crew members were examined by the medical team on-board ICGS Sarthak and were reported to be in good health. They are being transported back to Porbandar Harbour, Gujarat. The Indian Coast Guard has once again demonstrated its dedication to protecting lives at sea, living up to its motto, “वयं रक्षामः” or “We Protect.”
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