Copyright newskarnataka
Incident Overview On October 25, 2025, the Indian Coast Guard received a distress call from the fishing vessel IFB Sant Anton-I, which had been adrift approximately 100 nautical miles off the coast of Mangaluru. The boat, registered in Goa, experienced a steering gear malfunction that rendered it immobile. The crew endured turbulent sea conditions, limited food and water supplies, and uncertainty about rescue for nearly 11 days. The fishermen, numbering 31 in total, had been navigating rough waters with no means to control the direction of the vessel. Their prolonged ordeal raised concerns about dehydration, exhaustion, and the dangers posed by the strong currents and waves in the Arabian Sea. Local authorities coordinated with the ICG to monitor the situation and initiate immediate rescue efforts. Rescue Operation Upon receiving the distress signal, the ICG deployed the patrol vessel ICGS Kasturba Gandhi along with a Dornier surveillance aircraft from Kochi. The aircraft first located the stranded vessel and relayed its coordinates to the ICG rescue team. ICG personnel boarded the Sant Anton-I and assessed the mechanical issue. Using their technical expertise, they repaired the steering gear at sea, allowing the vessel to regain navigational control. Following the repair, the fishermen were provided with essential supplies including water, food, and first-aid support. The vessel was then escorted safely to Honnavar fishing harbour, ensuring that the crew avoided further hazards posed by the sea. Throughout the operation, the ICG maintained close communication with local authorities and the families of the fishermen, keeping them informed about the rescue efforts. Crew Welfare The 31 fishermen were found to be exhausted but in stable condition upon rescue. The ICG immediately facilitated medical checks, ensuring that any minor injuries or health concerns were addressed. Local volunteers and authorities provided additional support, including meals and temporary shelter, as the fishermen recovered from their prolonged ordeal. The successful operation demonstrates the ICG’s commitment not only to maritime security but also to the well-being and safety of India’s fishing community, whose livelihoods are often at risk due to mechanical failures, storms, and challenging sea conditions. Importance of Maritime Safety This incident highlights the vulnerability of small fishing vessels operating far from the coastline and underscores the strategic importance of the Indian Coast Guard in monitoring and assisting maritime traffic. The ICG has consistently conducted patrols, surveillance, and emergency rescues along India’s coastline, ensuring that fishermen and maritime workers receive timely assistance during emergencies. Experts note that mechanical failures at sea, combined with adverse weather, can lead to life-threatening situations. Therefore, robust communication systems, rapid response units, and trained personnel remain critical for effective maritime safety operations. ConclusionThe Indian Coast Guard’s prompt response and technical intervention ensured the safe return of all 31 fishermen who had been stranded in the Arabian Sea for 11 days. The operation is a testament to the ICG’s dedication, skill, and preparedness, reaffirming its role as a guardian of India’s coastal waters and a lifeline for its fishing communities.
