Panaji: In a swift and decisive operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully evacuated an Iranian fisherman who sustained critical injuries in an explosion aboard his vessel in the Arabian Sea. The fisherman was brought to Goa for immediate medical treatment.
The incident occurred during a fuel transfer operation on the Iranian fishing dhow, Al-Owais. The explosion resulted in severe damage, including injuries to both of the fisherman’s eyes and a deep laceration to his right ear. The vessel also experienced engine failure, complicating the situation.
The Coast Guard received a distress call indicating the need for urgent medical evacuation. A long-range Naval helicopter was dispatched from Goa to rendezvous with the ICGS Sachet, a Coast Guard vessel located approximately 180 km offshore. The helicopter successfully airlifted the injured fisherman, bringing him to Goa Medical College and Hospital for further management.
The distress call originated from the Al-Owais, situated about 1,500 km west of the Indian coast. Following protocol, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai activated the International Safety Net to alert nearby ships. Consequently, the crude oil tanker ‘MT STI Grace’, being the closest vessel, was diverted to provide initial assistance and medical aid to the injured fisherman while Coast Guard telemedicine support was provided.
The fisherman’s condition was continuously monitored. However, after his condition deteriorated, the decision was made to airlift him via helicopter on October 28th, leading to his transfer to Goa for advanced medical care.