Forest Labourers in their Dinghy Emerge as True First Responders
Report: Dr. Dinesh
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 24: The emergency water landing of a helicopter operated by Pawan Hans at Mayabunder at about 9:50 a.m. on 24th February 2026 calls for two parallel responses from the administration, recognition of exemplary civilian courage and a transparent investigation into the cause of the accident.
The aircraft was flying from Sri Vijaya Puram to Mayabunder and was reportedly on final approach, the helipad clearly visible, when it encountered difficulty. Passengers have stated that the pilot attempted to regain lift but was unable to do so. In a critical decision under pressure, the helicopter was brought down in shallow waters just short of the landing point. The limited depth of the sea prevented submersion and averted what could have been a far more serious outcome.
All seven passengers survived. Both pilots are safe. A woman sustained a minor head injury, while others reported minor injuries. The pilots were said to be in shock after the emergency landing, an understandable consequence of a high-risk situation.
Four passengers, Rajita Devi and her infant, Kamal Ch. Das, Sipra Saha, and Nambi Amma were rescued and taken to Dr. R.P Hospital in Mayabunder for medical attention.
In the immediate aftermath, forest department labourers who were nearby in a dinghy emerged as the true first responders. Without waiting for formal rescue teams, they reached the site swiftly, assisted passengers, including the infant, and ensured safe evacuation from the partially submerged helicopter. Their presence of mind, composure, and timely intervention were instrumental in preventing panic and possible secondary injuries.
Such acts of quiet bravery deserve formal acknowledgment. The Lieutenant Governor’s Commendation Certificate would be an appropriate and meaningful recognition of their service. Beyond honouring individuals, it would reaffirm the administration’s commitment to valuing courage and community responsibility in times of crisis.
At the same time, recognition must be accompanied by accountability. Helicopter services in the islands are not a luxury but a lifeline. A comprehensive and time-bound inquiry must examine whether the incident stemmed from mechanical malfunction, maintenance lapse, or operational factors during final approach. Maintenance records, flight data, and adherence to standard operating procedures must be scrutinised with technical rigour.
Public confidence in regional aviation depends not only on survival in emergencies, but on institutional transparency thereafter. If systemic gaps are found, corrective measures must follow.
The Mayabunder incident is a reminder that while accidents may occur, response defines consequence. The forest labourers rose to the occasion. It is now for the administration to both honour their courage and ensure that the causes of the accident are fully and transparently addressed.