In a remarkable display of maritime vigilance and swift action, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued 31 fishermen from a perilous situation in the Arabian Sea on October 25, 2025. Their fishing vessel, the IFB Sant Anton-I, had been adrift for a harrowing 11 days approximately 100 nautical miles off New Mangaluru, following a catastrophic steering gear failure.
The alarm was raised on October 24 when the Karnataka Coast Guard unit, based in Mangaluru, received urgent information about the missing Goa-based boat. Immediately, a large-scale Search and Rescue (SAR) operation was initiated to locate the vessel, which had drifted considerably due to adverse weather conditions.
Coordinated Sea-Air Rescue Effort
The rescue mission involved a powerful coordinated effort. The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Kasturba Gandhi, already on routine patrol, was rerouted to the vessel’s last known coordinates. Simultaneously, a Coast Guard Dornier aircraft from Kochi was dispatched to conduct an aerial search. Utilizing an integrated operations center and real-time weather data, the Coast Guard meticulously calculated the boat’s probable drift, guiding the ship to its updated position.
On October 25, the Dornier aircraft successfully sighted the stranded fishing boat. This crucial spotting allowed the ICGS Kasturba Gandhi to swiftly reach the location and provide immediate, vital assistance. The Coast Guard personnel conducted a comprehensive damage assessment, initiated on-site repairs to the steering system, and ensured the boat’s watertight integrity. They also provided essential logistical support to the distressed crew.
Once the IFB Sant Anton-I was stabilized, the Coast Guard vessel safely handed it over to another fishing boat for towing to the Honnavar fishing harbour in Uttara Kannada district. This ensured the safe return and well-being of all 31 crew members.
This rapid and highly effective sea-air rescue operation, executed amidst challenging weather conditions, powerfully reaffirms the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and ensuring safety across India’s vast maritime domain.