Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency demonstrated their effective response capabilities by successfully rescuing nine Indian seamen whose tugboat had become stranded at sea. The incident unfolded when the distressed tugboat, registered at St Kitts & Nevis, sent out a distress signal, alerting Pakistan Navy’s Joint Maritime Information and Coordination Center (JMICC) on February 4. The tugboat was located 167 nautical miles southeast of Karachi.
Responding promptly to the distress signal, a Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft was deployed for the crucial task of locating the stranded tugboat at sea. Subsequently, a Search and Rescue operation was carried out by Pakistan Maritime Security Ship Kashmir, which happened to be on routine Maritime Security Operations in the area.
Upon reaching the distressed vessel, PMSS Kashmir skillfully secured the tugboat alongside. The challenging part of the operation involved three hours of strenuous repair efforts to rectify the defect, which, in this case, was a loss of electrical power on the stranded tugboat.
The Navy’s efforts didn’t end with the repair. Recognizing the immediate needs of the crew, fresh water and cooked meals were provided to the nine Indian seamen. This humanitarian aspect underscores the commitment to ensuring the well-being of individuals in distress at sea.
Following the successful rescue and repair operation, the tugboat, now back in operational condition, was able to resume its journey toward Sharjah.
The entire episode showcases not only the technical and operational capabilities of the Pakistan Navy and Maritime Security Agency in responding to maritime emergencies but also emphasizes their commitment to international norms of assisting vessels in distress and ensuring the safety of seafarers navigating these waters. The coordinated and efficient response in this situation reflects the professionalism and preparedness of Pakistan’s maritime forces to handle unforeseen challenges at sea.
