New Delhi: The Indian Navy executed a successful medical evacuation mission, rescuing a Chinese seafarer from a bulk carrier located approximately 370 kilometers from Mumbai, in response to a distress signal received on Tuesday, July 23.
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai was alerted to the distress call on July 23 from the bulk carrier ZHONG SHAN MEN 200 Nm (equivalent to approximately 370 km) away from Mumbai. The vessel was in distress, reporting severe blood loss due to a critical injury sustained by a 51-year-old Chinese mariner, and requested urgent evacuation.
In response to the medical emergency, a Sea King helicopter was dispatched from the Indian Naval Air Station INS Shikra at 0550 hours. Despite facing adverse weather conditions, including winds exceeding 45 knots and the ship experiencing significant roll, exacerbated by the lack of a clear space on the continuous deck, the patient was successfully transferred from the bridge wing of the vessel.
Following the successful airlift, the patient was transported back to the air station by an Indian Navy helicopter. Subsequently, the patient was transferred to a hospital for further medical care.
The Indian Coast Guard Ship ICGS Samrat, located in the vicinity, was also redirected to provide assistance. This collaborative operation, overseen by the MRCC (MBI) in coordination with the Indian Navy, ensured the safe and prompt evacuation of the patient.
