Port Blair, Apr 16: Indian Coast Guard Ship Varad saved 02 lives by conducting a successful Search and Rescue operation off North Sentinel Island. One receipt of information from Joint Secretary Fishing Welfare Association on 15 Apr 14 regarding an overdue fishing dinghy MFV Subasini, extensive Search and Rescue operation was launched by Indian Coast Guard immediately. ICGS Varad Commanded by Comdt Sriman Narayana undertaking patrol off Cinque Island for Castal Security Exercise was diverted for SAR. The ship arrived in area at about 1200 hrs on 15 Apr. 14 and commenced the search with the integral hello onboard. After an extensive Sea Air Coordinated Search, the missing boat was located by ICGS Varad 17 NM of Rutland Island at 1430 Hrs on 15 Apr 14.
The Crew were taken onboard and was provided with first aid and food. On investigation it was found the propeller shaft was broken and the boat was adrift since 13 Apr 14. Further, the crew did not have any communication equipment with them. The boat was taken under taken under tow and was brought close to Wandoor and subsequently handed over to Sub Inspector Karthikeyan from Humfrigunj Police at 2020 hrs on 15Apr 14, a communiqué received Comdt Rajeev Sharma PRO Cast Guard.
