By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: In a remarkable joint effort, the Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (MSA) successfully rescued 9 Indian seamen stranded at sea. The Ocean Tug SAS-5, registered at St Kitts & Nevis, faced a critical situation with disabled electric generators, leaving it powerless 167 NM Southeast of Karachi.
Early on February 4, 2024, the Pakistan Navy Joint Maritime Information and Coordination Center (JMICC) received a distress signal from the stranded tug. The vessel, which departed from the Indian port of Debhol at Maharashtra on February 1, 2024, en route to Sharjah, UAE, was in urgent need of assistance.
Responding swiftly, the Pakistan Navy, in coordination with HQ PMSA, launched a Search & Rescue Operation. A PN Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft was deployed to locate the distressed tug, followed by a Search and Rescue operation conducted by the Pakistan Maritime Security Ship (PMSS) KASHMIR, deployed for routine Maritime Security Operations in the area.
Upon reaching the stranded tug, PMSS KASHMIR secured the vessel alongside. After three hours of dedicated repair efforts, the electrical defect was rectified. The crew received not only technical assistance but also essential provisions, medical facilities, fresh water, and cooked meals to alleviate their fatigue.
Following the successful Search & Rescue operation, the Ocean Tug SAS-5 resumed its voyage towards Sharjah, UAE. The salvaged crew expressed deep appreciation for the professional and timely response by the Pakistan Navy and PMSA assets, highlighting the effectiveness of their coordinated efforts in maritime emergencies.
