The courage of the Indian Coast Guard is often celebrated through various heroic tales. One such story unfolded on the night of August 26, when the coast guard successfully rescued 11 individuals from a sinking cargo ship. The Indian Coast Guard sprang into action to save the MV ITT Puma, which was en route from Kolkata to Port Blair. The rescue operation on that fateful Sunday night was a testament to the bravery and dedication of the coast guard personnel, especially as they conducted search and rescue efforts in the darkness of night.

Incident Overview

The cargo ship encountered distress approximately 90 nautical miles south of West Bengal. The first alert about the sinking came to the Chennai-based Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre late on the evening of August 25. Responding swiftly, the regional headquarters of the Indian Coast Guard in Kolkata dispatched two coast guard ships along with a Dornier aircraft to the site of the incident.

Successful Rescues

Thanks to the valiant efforts of the Indian Coast Guard, 11 individuals were saved during this terrifying ordeal. However, as of Monday, three crew members were still unaccounted for, as confirmed by coast guard officials. This incident highlights not only the risks faced by seafarers but also the swift response capabilities of the coast guard.

Details of the Rescue Operation

Upon receiving the distress signals regarding the sinking vessel, the coast guard officials immediately activated a search and rescue protocol. Multiple aircraft were deployed to the area. Equipped with advanced sensors capable of detecting life rafts in low visibility, the Dornier aircraft successfully located the drifting life rafts and assisted in retrieving the stranded crew members.

Challenges Faced

Conducting rescue operations at night poses significant challenges, including visibility issues and unpredictable sea conditions. Nevertheless, the adeptness of the Indian Coast Guard personnel ensured that a coordinated effort was put forth to minimize risks and maximize the safety of those involved.

Conclusion

The sinking of the MV ITT Puma serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers that vessels face at sea. It also underscores the critical role that the Indian Coast Guard plays in maritime safety. As the search continues for the remaining crew members, the commitment and bravery of the coast guard remain a source of inspiration, highlighting their dedication to protecting lives at sea.