8 Indians Rescued After Vessel Capsizes Off Oman Coast

Eight Indians were among nine crew members rescued from the MT Falcon Prestige after it capsized off the coast of Oman. The vessel had a total of 25 crew members, including 13 Indians. The Indian Navy warship INS Teg played a crucial role in the rescue operations, successfully saving one Sri Lankan and eight Indian sailors. Additionally, the Navy deployed its maritime surveillance aircraft P-8I alongside Omani vessels and personnel to assist in the search and rescue missions.

Incident Overview

The incident occurred on Monday, 25 nautical miles southeast of Ras Madrakah, near the port town of Duqm. The vessel, a Comoros-flagged oil tanker, was en route to the Yemeni port city of Aden when it capsized. The search and rescue operations for the remaining 16 crew members are still underway, as confirmed by the Sultanate’s Maritime Security Centre (MSC).

Rescue Operations

The Indian warship INS Teg was conducting operational turnaround in the area when it was directed to carry out search and rescue missions on Monday. The capsized oil tanker was located on Tuesday morning, enabling the Navy and Omani authorities to begin rescue efforts. The MSC stated on social media that the rescue operations are ongoing and involve multiple agencies working together.

Efforts by Indian Navy

The Indian Navy’s involvement in the rescue operations underscores its commitment to safeguarding lives at sea. The use of the P-8I aircraft, known for its advanced surveillance capabilities, highlights the extensive efforts made to locate and rescue the crew members. The collaboration with Omani vessels and personnel further demonstrates the strong maritime cooperation between India and Oman.

Response from Authorities

Indian authorities have expressed gratitude for the swift and coordinated response from both the Indian Navy and Omani authorities. The Defence Ministry sources told India Today that the efforts are focused on finding the remaining crew members and ensuring their safety. The families of the crew members are being kept informed about the progress of the rescue operations.

Challenges Faced

The rescue operations have faced several challenges, including rough sea conditions and the need for precise coordination among multiple agencies. Despite these obstacles, the combined efforts of the Indian Navy and Omani authorities have been commendable. The successful rescue of nine crew members is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the rescue teams involved.

Importance of Maritime Safety

This incident highlights the critical importance of maritime safety and the need for robust rescue mechanisms. The Indian Navy’s swift response and the use of advanced technology in search and rescue operations set a benchmark for future maritime incidents. Ensuring the safety of crew members and minimizing the loss of life at sea remain paramount.

The successful rescue of eight Indian and one Sri Lankan crew members from the MT Falcon Prestige off the Oman coast showcases the effectiveness of coordinated maritime rescue operations. The ongoing efforts to locate the remaining crew members reflect the commitment of the Indian Navy and Omani authorities to ensuring safety at sea. This incident underscores the importance of maritime cooperation and the need for continued vigilance in safeguarding lives at sea.