Indian Navy Rescues Injured Seafarer From Oil Tanker Off Mumbai Despite Severe Weather

An Indian Navy Sea King helicopter evacuated an injured seafarer from Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) crude oil tanker MT Desh Shakti off the Mumbai coast on July 4, despite heavy rain, poor visibility and rough seas.

The helicopter, operating from INS Shikra, used a rescue basket to lift the injured crew member from the tanker. The patient was stabilised onboard before being flown ashore for urgent medical treatment, the Indian Navy said.

The rescue was carried out as heavy rain continued to affect Mumbai and nearby areas, where a red alert had been issued because of the weather conditions.

“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 helicopter, he was transported ashore for urgent medical care,” the Navy said in a statement.

A defence spokesperson said the operation was completed despite continuous rain, poor visibility and rough seas. The helicopter safely evacuated the injured seafarer using a rescue basket before taking the patient to shore for further treatment.

The Navy said the mission showed its commitment to saving lives at sea and its role as a first responder in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The rescue took place as heavy rain disrupted normal life across Mumbai and the surrounding metropolitan region.

The downpour caused road cave-ins, tree falls and house collapses, while road and rail services were affected in several parts of the city.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an alert for extremely heavy rainfall, prompting the civic authorities to declare a holiday for schools and colleges later in the day.

Waterlogging was reported in several low-lying areas, including Andheri, Kurla, Sakinaka, Chembur, Santacruz, Goregaon and Powai. Public transport services were also disrupted, causing difficulties for commuters.

The Indian Navy said the injured seafarer was stabilised during the flight and taken ashore for urgent medical care. It did not provide further details about the person’s condition or the cause of the injury.

References: ptinews, ndtv