Indian Navy rescues 14 crew members from burning vessel in North Arabian Sea

New Delhi: Demonstrating rapid operational readiness and unwavering commitment to seafarer safety, the Indian Navy rescued 14 Indian crew members onboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 in the North Arabian Sea.

In the early hours of June 29, INS Tabar, which was on a mission-based deployment, received a Mayday distress call from MT Yi Cheng 6. The vessel reported a major fire outbreak in its engine room while operating approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, an Indian Navy statement said today.

Responding swiftly, INS Tabar proceeded at maximum speed and reached the vicinity of the distressed tanker. Upon arrival, the naval team established communication with the vessel’s Master and immediately commenced firefighting operations.

Prioritising crew safety, seven crew members were promptly evacuated to INS Tabar using the ship’s boats. All evacuated personnel were unharmed and received medical evaluations from Tabar’s onboard medical team. The remaining crew, including the Master, stayed aboard the vessel to assist with fire containment efforts.

INS Tabar deployed a six-member firefighting and damage control team with firefighting equipment. Their initial efforts, in coordination with the ship’s crew, significantly reduced the intensity of the fire, which was successfully contained within the engine room.

To strengthen the ongoing operation, 13 additional Indian Navy personnel-- five officers and eight sailors-- were deployed to support the firefighting mission. Sustained efforts by Indian Navy’s firefighting team along with crew members have successfully brought the fire under control. Temperature checks and continuous monitoring are being conducted to ensure safety, while INS Tabar remains on station to provide continued support.

The courageous and timely action by the Indian Navy not only ensured the safety of the vessel and its crew but also reinforced India’s role as the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region. The operation exemplifies the Navy’s exceptional rapid response capability, operational preparedness, and humanitarian approach to maritime safety.