Indian Coast Guard Rescues 11 Crew from Distressed Fishing Boat Aashni off Kerala Coast

PONNANI, Kerala - In a daring display of bravery amidst relentless monsoon rains and turbulent seas, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) executed a flawless search and rescue mission to save 11 crew members stranded aboard the distressed Indian fishing boat (IFB) Aashni (IND-TN-12-MM-6623) off the coast of Ponani, Kerala on July 17, 2024.

The dramatic operation commenced late on July 16 when an ICG Dornier aircraft conducting maritime surveillance spotted the stricken IFB, located approximately 50 nautical miles off Ponani (80 nautical miles from Kochi). The IFB Aashni was in dire straits, grappling with uncontrolled flooding near the keel and complete loss of propulsion, posing an imminent threat to the safety of its crew.

Responding swiftly to the distress call, ICG District Headquarters No.4 (Kerala & Mahe) diverted the ICGS Saksham, already patrolling nearby waters. Recognizing the gravity of the situation exacerbated by challenging weather conditions, the ICG promptly launched an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) from Kochi at 0205 hrs to initiate aerial rescue operations. Additionally, ICG ship Abhinav was mobilized at 0245 hrs on July 17 to bolster the SAR effort.

ICG ship Saksham raced to the scene at maximum speed and swiftly deployed a specialized technical team onboard the distressed IFB. Despite the adverse weather conditions, the team from Saksham conducted rigorous de-flooding operations and provided essential technical assistance, fresh water, and rations to the crew of Aashni.

The seamless sea-air coordinated rescue operation ensured the safe evacuation of all 11 crew members from IFB Aashni, now under tow to Kochi for further assessment and repairs.

This successful mission underscores the unwavering commitment and operational prowess of the Indian Coast Guard in safeguarding lives and maritime assets amidst challenging conditions.