Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 25: On 24/02/2026, in a remarkable display of courage, commitment, and presence of mind, personnel of PMF, IRBn, along with the Forest Department personnel demonstrated exceptional devotion to duty during the emergency involving the landing of Pawan Hans helicopter near Thota Tikrey Island, Mayabunder.
At approx. 0930 hours, upon noticing the incident, a Forest Department dinghy already patrolling in the area, comprising IRBn and Forest Department personnel, immediately rushed to the site. The team, consisting of Head Constable K. Kartik Kumar (IRBn – Compounder) along with Forest department staff, Sh. Saw Sakari, Sh. Saw Manashay, and Sh. Saw S.C. Thomas, displayed extraordinary courage in rescuing all passengers from the sea. Despite challenging conditions, they safely evacuated all occupants, including an unconscious elderly woman who had ingested a significant amount of seawater, and transported them to Mayabunder Jetty. HC K. Kartik Kumar rendered timely first aid at the site, playing a crucial role in stabilizing the rescued persons.
Simultaneously, the PMF Mayabunder team sprang into action. HC/1655 Ratan Jha and HC/1253 M. Gopi, along with FRP No. 07, swiftly reached the location and successfully rescued the two pilots. Demonstrating exceptional bravery, PMF personnel even undertook an underwater dive to ensure that no one remained trapped in the submerged helicopter.
The seamless coordination, fearless action, and unwavering dedication exhibited by Forest Department, PMF and IRBn personnel reflect the highest traditions of service. Their prompt life-saving response stands as a shining example of duty beyond the call.
