India Defence News, Porbandar/Pipavav, March 23, 2025 – The Indian Coast Guard demonstrated exceptional coordination and swift response in two simultaneous Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) operations on March 23, 2025, rescuing fishermen with severe injuries off the Gujarat coast. The operations, conducted by Maritime Rescue Sub-Centers (MRSC) at Porbandar and Pipavav, underscored the Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding lives at sea.
Rapid Response to Distress Calls
In the early hours of March 23, distress calls were received by the MRSC units, reporting two separate incidents involving fishermen with critical injuries. One fisherman had suffered a severe foot injury, while another sustained a serious head injury. Both incidents occurred approximately 100-106 kilometers off the coast, necessitating immediate action. The Coast Guard deployed two of its ships, C-409 and C-156, to the respective locations to ensure timely evacuations.
In a well coordinated Medical Evacuation operations at sea on 23 Mar 25, @IndiaCoastGuard Maritime Rescue Sub-Centers #MRSC #Porbandar & #Pipavav saved the lives of fishermen with severe foot & head injuries. #ICG ships swiftly responded to distress calls for timely evacuations.… pic.twitter.com/FEAM1GnRLh
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) March 25, 2025
Operation off Pipavav: Rescue from Hari Prasad
The MRSC Pipavav coordinated the evacuation of a fisherman from the fishing boat Hari Prasad, located 106 kilometers offshore. Indian Coast Guard ship C-409 reached the vessel swiftly, providing initial medical assistance to the injured crew member with a severe foot injury. The fisherman was stabilized on board and safely transported to Pipavav Harbour, where he was handed over to local authorities for further treatment.
Operation off Porbandar: Evacuation from Rajeshwari-7
Simultaneously, the MRSC Porbandar managed the rescue of a fisherman from the boat Rajeshwari-7, positioned 100 kilometers from Porbandar. Coast Guard ship C-156 was dispatched to the scene, where the crew member with a critical head injury was attended to by the ship’s medical team. The injured fisherman was then evacuated to Porbandar, ensuring prompt delivery to a medical facility for advanced care.
A Lifeline for Fishermen
These well-executed operations highlight the Indian Coast Guard’s operational readiness and dedication to maritime safety. The swift deployment of resources and seamless coordination between the MRSC units at Porbandar and Pipavav ensured that both fishermen received timely medical attention, potentially saving their lives. The Coast Guard’s efforts reflect its motto, Vayam Rakshamah (We Protect), extending protection to those in distress at sea.
Continued Vigilance as of March 30, 2025
As of today, March 30, 2025, the Indian Coast Guard continues to be a vital lifeline for India’s maritime community, responding to emergencies with precision and care. These rescues add to a growing list of successful missions in 2025, reinforcing the agency’s role as a guardian of the seas.