Navy launches rescue operation after receiving distress signal from drifting vessel with 20 on board

Mumbai: The Indian Navy has launched a rescue operation after it received a distress signal at around Sunday midnight from the Jindal Kamakshi vessel. The Navy rescue ship has reached the vessel. But rescue operations are proving to be difficult due to adverse weather.

"Information was received around midnight by the Indian Navy that a vessel in distress Jindal Kamakshi which was 40 nautical miles from Mumbai harbour and 25 nautical miles off Vasai coast had listed heavily," a Defence spokesperson said.

The vessel is tilting precariously due to choppy waters. There are 20 people on board the Jindal Kamakshi vessel. "The distress message said the vessel listed heavily, with 20 persons onboard and requested assistance," the official said, adding the cause of the listing was not confirmed.

One Sea King helicopter has been launched to evacuate people from the vessel and they are being brought to INS Shikra in Colaba. "Indian Navy has launched one Seaking helicopter to provide immediate assistance and a ship was also deployed for rendering assistance. The ship has been contacted," he said.

He further said, the vessel had counter ballasted (flood opposite tank) to improve stability. Condition is currently stable.

"Considering the sea state in the area, we are keeping a close watch on the situation and keeping close to evacuate the vessel should the situation worsen," he added.