Chennai: In a swift operation, Indian Coast Guard Ship Vaibhav rescued nine fishermen of IFB Jeraldon-2, a fishing boat, which was stranded about 75 nautical miles South East of Tuticorin due to engine failure.

According to an official release, earlier an information was received by Maritime Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC), Tuticorin regarding the stranded fishing boat and distressed crew.

The boat was reportedly drifting at sea due to engine failure and facing the vagaries of ocean. Further, owing to strong winds and currents the fishing boat drifted into the Sri Lankan waters.

ICGS Vaibhav rushed to the area and undertook a thorough search. Subsequently communication was established with the boat, which was approximately 25 nautical miles across the IMBL.

“A continuous communication was maintained with the Fisheries Department, Tuticorin and the boat owner during the entire operation. ICGS Vaibhav towed the boat and handed over Jeraldon-2 alongwith her nine crew to another fishing boat which was deployed by the owner for assistance, about 10 n miles inside the Indian waters at 1750 h on 10 September 2020,” it added.