MbPA and JNPA take part in rescue operation and recovery following Mumbai boat sinking incident
On Wednesday, at approximately 1600 hours, a passenger boat en route to Elephanta Island from Gateway of India began sinking near the Jetty-5 landing point of Jawahar Dweep after a collision. The Control Room promptly received an alert from the Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) of Mumbai Port Authority, initiating an immediate response by the CISF Patrol Boat Team.
The CISF team acted swiftly, arriving at the incident site and reaching within 10 minutes. Demonstrating exceptional dedication, the team rescued approximately 35 to 40 passengers, including six small children, who were prioritised during the operation, and two foreign nationals, highlighted an MbPA release.
Simultaneously, the JNPA pilot boat, which was already underway and monitoring VHF communications, reached the incident site to assist in rescue efforts. Two JNPA patrol boats manned with JNPA CISF also joined the operation shortly thereafter. Later, Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard teams arrived at the site to augment the ongoing rescue mission.
The 56 rescued passengers were transported to the JNPA landing jetty where CISF personnel extended further assistance and provided first aid. 21 rescued personnel were taken in the ICG / IN boat. During the operation, CISF marine commandos administered CPR to passengers requiring immediate medical attention, ensuring their safety and recovery.
Team members involved: CT Savant Amole and CT Bikes Ghosh.
The professionalism and quick response of the CISF marine commandos played a crucial role in the success of the operation, the release added.
JNPA Marine Department team was swift in its response, whose efforts, alongside naval personnel, ensured the rescue of the passengers. Its pilot boat, which was in the vicinity, played a critical role in this rescue operation. The rescued individuals were promptly brought to JNPA Hospital, where they are receiving the best possible medical care and attention.
JNPA has extended its heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by the unfortunate mishap, especially the near and dear ones of those who perished, including a young girl who was brought dead to the hospital. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. Chairman, JNPA Shri Unmesh Sharad Wagh has also ensured that all the treated citizens would be dropped at their residence by making suitable arrangements by JNPA,” it stressed in a statement.
Source: Exim News Service: Mumbai, Dec. 19