The Indian Navy on Saturday carried out a high-risk medical evacuation of an injured seafarer from the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) crude oil tanker MT Desh Shakti off the coast of Mumbai, successfully completing the rescue despite severe weather conditions.
According to the Navy, a Sea King helicopter from INS Shikra was deployed after an emergency request for medical assistance was received from the vessel. The rescue operation was conducted amid a red alert triggered by incessant rainfall, poor visibility and rough sea conditions along the Mumbai coast.
Using a rescue basket, the helicopter crew safely winched the injured seafarer from the tanker before providing immediate medical stabilisation onboard the aircraft.
After initial treatment in the helicopter, the patient was flown ashore and transferred for urgent medical care. The Navy did not disclose the identity of the injured crew member or the nature of the injuries.
In an official statement, the Navy said, “Indian Navy Sea King helicopter from INS Shikra undertook urgent medical evacuation of an injured seafarer from SCI crude oil tanker MT Desh Shakti off Mumbai on July 4. After stabilising the patient onboard the helicopter, he was transported ashore for urgent medical care.”
The operation was executed despite adverse monsoon weather, demonstrating the Navy’s operational readiness and capability to conduct complex rescue missions under challenging conditions.
The successful evacuation highlights the Indian Navy’s role in providing maritime search-and-rescue assistance and emergency medical support to vessels operating in Indian waters. Such missions are routinely carried out in coordination with civilian maritime authorities to ensure the safety of seafarers.
The Navy said the operation reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding lives at sea and reinforces its role as a “First Responder” in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)where it regularly undertakes humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and maritime rescue operations.
Comments are closed.