In the wake of Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘Asani’, the Indian Coast Guard, in a swift response and deftly coordinated SAR operation, rescued 11 fishermen from the distressed boat ‘D Jangameeya’ off Sonapur Beach, 20 Km south of Gopalpur on 09 May 22.
At about 1515 hrs on 09 May 22, the Indian Coast Guard Station Gopalpur received an information from District Collector Ganjam regarding 11 fishermen stranded onboard small dinghy in the cyclonic weather off Sonapur Beach, 20 Km from Gopalpur. As per the information available from sources, the said boat belongs to a resident of sonapur who was returning from Visakhapatnam alongwith ten other fishermen. The boat was stuck in cyclonic winds off Gopalpur coast and suffered an engine failure. As per the statement of rescued fishermen, the boat was taking in water due to very high swell, cyclonic winds and very rough seas and all the crew onboard feared for their life.
Understanding the criticality of situation and persisting cyclonic conditions, Indian Coast Guard immediately launched its most advanced helicopter ALH MK III from Coast Guard Air Enclave, Bhubaneswar for the rescue of stranded fishermen. The aircraft safely rescued all the fishermen and landed them on Sonapur beach. The rescued crew was provided with first aid and served with food and water. All 11 fishermen have been reported safe and healthy. The rescued crew have been handed over safely to local police.
Indian Coast Guard has been working in close coordination with civil administration of states of Odisha and West Bengal to ensure nil loss of life at sea during impending weather owing to cyclone ‘Asani’. Indian Coast Guard ships on patrol and aircraft on surveillance have been broadcasting weather warning to fishermen and mariners at sea. As part of its charter of duties, the Indian Coast Guard undertakes Maritime Search and Rescue operations frequently. This operation again reflects the commitment of Indian Coast Guard towards safeguarding precious lives at sea against all odds. The instant case also highlights the effective coordination between the agencies which resulted in saving 11 precious lives at sea amidst severe cyclone. This is in keeping with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard ‘VAYAM RAKSHAMAH’ which means “WE PROTECT”.
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