North Arabian Sea, 29 June 2025 — In a high-risk rescue operation, Indian Navy’s INS Tabar responded to a Mayday call from the Palau‑flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6, which had caught fire in its engine room approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah. Acting immediately, the ship raced to the scene to support the distressed vessel and safeguard the crew.
Evacuation Saves Seven Lives, No Injuries Reported
Upon arrival, INS Tabar communicated with the tanker’s master and commenced rescue and firefighting operations. Using its boats, the ship evacuated seven Indian crew members, all of whom were unharmed and received medical checks on board. The remaining crew, including the master, stayed to assist in containing the fire.
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Naval Firefighting Teams Gain Control After Intense Effort
Initially, a six-member damage-control team from INS Tabar joined forces with the tanker crew to combat the blaze. Soon afterward, 13 more Navy personnel (five officers and eight sailors) arrived to reinforce the operation. Their combined effort quickly reduced the fire’s intensity, limiting the smoke to the engine room. The fire has now been brought under control, and the ship remains on standby to provide ongoing support.
Reinforcing India’s Role as First Responder in the Region
This successful mission highlights the Indian Navy’s rapid deployment capability, readiness, and humanitarian approach. By safely evacuating the crew and containing the fire, INS Tabar reaffirmed India’s role as a dependable first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.
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