Daring operation: Indian Navy rescues 14 crew members from burning Palau-flagged tanker in Arabian Sea
New Delhi: The Indian Navy carried out a high-risk firefighting and rescue mission last Sunday aboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 in the North Arabian Sea, successfully bringing the situation under control and safeguarding all 14 Indian crew members.
According to an official release, the incident happened in the early hours of 29 June when INS Tabar, deployed on a mission-based operation, received a Mayday distress call from the tanker. The vessel had reported a severe fire in its engine room while operating approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE.
Responding swiftly, INS Tabar proceeded at maximum speed to assist. The ship reached the vicinity of the distressed vessel and, upon arrival, established communication with the Master of the vessel and commenced firefighting operations.
Prioritising the safety of the crew, INS Tabar swiftly evacuated seven crew members from MT Yi Cheng 6 using the ship's boats. All evacuees, found to be unharmed, were examined by the onboard medical team. The remaining crew, including the vessel’s Master, remained onboard to assist with containment efforts.
A six-member Indian Navy firefighting and damage control team, equipped with specialised gear, was initially deployed to tackle the blaze. Joint efforts by naval personnel and the ship's crew led to a significant reduction in the fire's intensity, with the smoke confined to the engine room. To reinforce the operation, an additional 13 naval personnel, five officers and eight sailors, were later sent aboard to support the ongoing firefighting mission.
Through sustained efforts by the Indian Navy’s firefighting team in coordination with the ship’s crew, the fire on board MT Yi Cheng 6 has been successfully brought under control. Temperature levels are being continuously monitored to prevent any resurgence. INS Tabar remains on station to provide ongoing support and ensure the safety of the vessel and crew. ANI