Sri Vijaya Puram, June 8: On 04 Jun 25, Andaman Nicobar Command demonstrated its unwavering commitment to maritime safety and averted a potential disaster at sea, posed by a Merchant Vessel with imminent risk of grounding at Battimalv Island.
On 01 Jun 25, Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Sri Vijaya Puram, received an information, intimating about Merchant Vessel Fotex with 14 crew onboard, drifting in area due to engine failure. The Vessel was enroute from Thailand to UAE when it suffered machinery breakdown. The vessel on the South-Western side of Nicobar Group of Islands began drifting towards A&N Islands, posing a grave threat to these ecologically sensitive pristine Islands.
The Coast Guard Regional Headquarter at Sri Vijaya Puram was directed by Andaman Nicobar Command to monitor the adrift vessel through continuous aerial surveillances and requested Owner of the vessel to arrange a tug boat for ensuring safety of the vessel and marine ecosystem. However, tug boat could not be arranged by the owner, in meantime vessel was closing in towards A&N Island Chain. Car Nicobar, Teressa and Battimalv Islands were identified as risk zones due to changing drifting patterns. On 04 Jun 25, the Merchant vessel, when it was 10 miles away from Batti Malv Island, finally sent out a distress call and requested for towing assistance. MRCC, Sri Vijaya Puram sprung into action and Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Vijit, which was maintaining near Batti Malv Island, was directed to provide assistance to the vessel.
Despite facing rough seas and challenging weather conditions, the ICG Ship displayed outstanding seamanship skills and professionalism. The vessel was quickly taken under tow and was safely moved away from the island’s coastline. This timely and effective response prevented the vessel from running aground and averted a potential environmental disaster. The operation highlights the synergy in action under Andaman Nicobar Command, where Indian Coast Guard played a role as a vigilant guardian protecting lives, property and maritime environment in Indian waters.