In a thrilling rescue operation Indian Coast Guard (ICG) saved seven people from a tug boat caught mid-sea off Porbandar coast on Wednesday early morning.
The tug which was on passage from coastal Veraval town in Gir Somnath district to Sikka in Jamnagar district experienced loss of engine power due to bursting of fuel lines and had no fuel left on board. As a result of it seven fishermen aboard the tug boat – Jalraak – were stuck mid-sea.
The tug raised distress alert to Coast Guard district headquarters, Porbandar in the wee hours. Due to the prevailing monsoon weather, the tug started drifting towards South West of Porbandar harbour and thereby posed serious danger to the crew.
Though assistance was sought from tugs from Porbandar port, but extreme weather conditions became obstacle to extend any support to the drifting distressed tug. In order to mitigate the situation and avoid loss to life, ICG ship ‘Shoor’ was made to sail immediately. In the meantime the tug was advised to arrest the drift by anchoring in the position.
However due to strong swell and rough sea conditions, the anchor cable of tug parted and continued to drift toward shore. ICG’s boat came close to Jalarak but couldn’t connect up tow due to conducive sea conditions and lack of communication with the tug. By the time situation worsened as the tug further drifted to shallow waters and it was impossible for the ICG boat to venture inside shallow waters.
As a result of it towing operation had to be aborted despite the fact tug was in the vicinity of ICG boat. Finally it was decided to use first light helicopters from Coast Guard enclave Porbandar to airlift all seven crew members.