Indian Coast Guard Rescues Three Fishermen 70 Kms Off Poovar, Kerala Coast

[Major Shaitan Singh]

On 14th July 15, Indian Coast Guard Station Vizhinjam recieved an information from District Collector Trivandrum regarding three missing fishermen in a 'Vallam' which had departed Vizhinjam for fishing on 13th July 15. Immediately Coast Guard Stn Vizhinjam deployed ICGS C-427 for search of missing personnel. the search continued on 15th July 15 in coordination with Coast Guard Dornier aircraft from Kochi and Marine enforcement boats. In addition, one Coast Guard ship from Kochi on routine surveillance off Kerala coast was also diverted for the search.

Coast Guard Maritime rescue coordination centre (Mumbai) had activated ISN (International Safety Net) which passes information to all merchant ships transitting through area to provide necessary assistance on 16th July 15. Coast Guard authorities recieved an information from Merchant Vessel MV Smyrni regarding sighting of 3 personnel over a capsized Vallam boat about 70 kms off Poovar coast in deep sea.

ICGS C-427 which was already in search for missing personnel was diverted for search and rescue with maximum speed. Meanwhile Coast Guard Dornier aircraft was launched from kochi for a coordinated search. the aircraft located the fishing boat along with three fisherfolk. Despite heavy swells and rough sea conditions, ICGS C-427 proceeded with maximum speed and reached area at 10.30 am. The Coast Guard vessel rescued all three fishermen. ICGS C-427 will be entering Vizhinjam harbour along with rescued fishermen.