Coast Guard rescues 24 fishermen

Mangaluru, Sep 11: Indian Coast Guard rescued 24 fishermen stranded at sea off Bhatkal port today.

Due to strong wind and swell, the Fishing Boat Qamrul Bahar was stranded at Sea, about 15 nautical miles from the coast.

According to the Coast Guard, the fishing boat lost propulsion due to engine failure. Due to rough weather conditions in area, the owner of fishing boat contacted Deputy Director of fisheries Karwar for help.

ICG Ship Kasturba Gandhi, which was on operational deployment in Karnataka Coast, was diverted immediately for undertaking search and rescue operation.

The ship arrived at 8 pm on Thursday and established communication with fishermen and reassured the presence of ICG.

At 10.30 am on Friday, in favorable conditions, all fishermen in good health were safely shifted onboard by ICG Ship. The ship proceeded to Karwar Port.

Electronic surveillance in area is being maintained through coastal surveillance network to shepherd fishing boots in area to safer locations and regular weather warning advisory is also being transmitted.