Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Apr 28: In a significant event, a fishing vessel named Periyandavar, which was en route Andamans from Cuddalore faced engine trouble. As per details, Periyandavar encountered engine failure shortly after its journey began from Cuddalore on March 12. Adrift in the Bay of Bengal for nearly 10 days due to the engine malfunction, the vessel was finally rescued by a private fishing vessel of Andaman Bhasker-1.
Last Friday night, MV Bhaskar- I successfully towed Periyandavar to Port Blair. Due to the timely action taken, the fishing vessel Bhasker -1 the vessel in distress Periyandavar was safely brought to Port Blair, ensuring the well-being of all fishermen and crew members onboard. Fisheries Department of A & N Islands reportedly gave all necessary support to Bhasker-1.
In this regard Andaman Sheekha Daily interviewed the crew members of Bhaskar-1 and the fishing vessel Periyandavar , providing further insights into the situation.
“We had stocked up on food for only five days,” said Veera, a crew member. He added that they left from Cuddalore to reach the Andamans on 12 April 2024. However, on the 15th April, the engine of Periyandavar suffered breakdown.
“We had brought food for five days. So, we had to ration the remaining food for ten days and endure hardship. During the 10 days some ships reached us, we requested assistance. Some ships provided help and shared food and water. We faced a lot of difficulty during those ten days.” he added. Two of the fishermen reportedly fell ill but after reaching Port Blair, they received medical treatment.
Crew members of Bhasker -1 told Andaman Sheekha that they left Port Blair to bring back Periyandavar vessel to Port Blair but after reaching at the site where Periyandavar developed engine failure they could not find the vessel.
For nearly three to four days they looked for the vessel patiently but ultimately with the help of Coast Guard Chennai unit they could locate the vessel Periyandavar nearly 20 knots away. Finally the vessel Periyandavar was safely brought back to Port Blair. Local fishermen lauded the efforts of Bhasker-1 fishing vessel owner and the crew members. They also appreciated Fisheries Department for all help.
