A timely operation by the PMF Rangat team prevented a potential maritime mishap on August 18 when a fishing trawler with five crew members suffered an engine failure off Rangat Bay. The trawler, MV Sarveshwaran (Reg. No. IND-AN-SA-MM-2059), had issued a distress relay at 1550 hrs through the Fisheries Department at Nimbutala, reporting the breakdown and requesting immediate assistance.
Responding swiftly, the PMF team led by SI (Master) Abdul Lathief and supported by HCs Samson and C. Samsudeen departed from Rangat at 1610 hrs onboard Fast Interceptor Boat (FIB) MV Suntook. The crew maintained constant vigilance as they sailed into rough waters under deteriorating weather conditions, demonstrating urgency and precision in the search and rescue effort.
By 1715 hrs, after an hour-long search across challenging seas, the team successfully located MV Sarveshwaran approximately 4.5 nautical miles from Rangat Bay jetty. The stranded fishermen were immediately provided with basic first aid onboard MV Suntook to ensure their wellbeing after enduring distress at sea.
With the crew stabilized, preparations began to tow the disabled trawler to safety. The weather presented significant challenges, with heavy rains, rough seas, and squally winds hampering the effort. Despite these conditions, the PMF personnel displayed exceptional seamanship and resilience. The coordinated towing operation was carried out with careful navigation, ensuring both the safety of the fishermen and the vessel.
After steady progress through turbulent waters, MV Sarveshwaran was brought back to Rangat Bay Harbour and securely anchored at the Inner Harbour. The operation concluded without any harm to the crew or damage to the vessel, averting what could have become a serious maritime accident.
The successful rescue is being viewed as a reflection of the preparedness and professionalism of the Andaman and Nicobar Police’s PMF unit in handling emergencies at sea. For island communities where livelihoods depend heavily on fishing, such prompt responses are critical to ensuring the safety of both people and resources.
The incident also highlights the importance of rapid coordination between the Fisheries Department and maritime police. The prompt relay of distress signals, followed by the immediate launch of the rescue operation, ensured that no time was lost in reaching the stranded fishermen. The effectiveness of the operation also demonstrates the utility of interceptor vessels such as MV Suntook, which are designed for speed and maneuverability in demanding sea conditions.
The A&N Police have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of islanders. Public cooperation continues to be an important element of security and safety across the islands. Citizens are encouraged to share credible information about any crime or illegal activity with their nearest police station or through helplines 100, 112, and 03192-273344. Informers’ identities will be kept confidential and suitably rewarded, reinforcing the collaborative approach to community safety.
The rescue of MV Sarveshwaran underscores the significance of vigilance and preparedness in maritime policing. For the fishermen rescued, the incident ended safely due to the timely intervention of the PMF Rangat team, whose efforts ensured that both crew and vessel returned to harbour without loss.
