New Delhi: In a remarkable display of maritime rescue and firefighting expertise, the Indian Navy’s warship INS Trikand played a pivotal role in a successful firefighting and Search & Rescue (SAR) operation onboard the Cameroon-flagged LPG carrier, MT Falcon, off the coast of Djibouti in the Gulf of Aden.
INS Trikand, currently deployed for maritime security operations in the strategically important Gulf of Aden region, responded swiftly to the distress call from MT Falcon, which was battling a severe onboard fire. The incident posed grave risks due to intense heat, toxic fumes, and damaged ship structures, threatening the safety of the 26-member crew onboard.
Firefighting Operation in Coordination with Civil Authorities
The Indian Navy team coordinated closely with a Civil Tug hired by the shipping company, undertaking a concerted firefighting operation to contain and eventually bring the fire under control. The combined efforts helped stabilize the situation onboard the LPG carrier, preventing a potential disaster in this vital maritime corridor.
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Rescue of Crew Members and Recovery of Missing Personnel
Out of the 26 crew members onboard MT Falcon, 24 were successfully evacuated and rescued by nearby merchant ships operating in the vicinity, comprising 25 Indian nationals and one British citizen. However, two crew members remained missing during the evacuation.
Demonstrating exceptional courage and professionalism, a specialized team of firefighting and medical experts from INS Trikand boarded the damaged vessel. Braving the hazardous conditions of intense heat, compromised structural integrity, and toxic smoke, the team conducted a meticulous search operation and recovered the mortal remains of the two missing crew members.
These remains were handed over with utmost respect and care to the Embassy of India in Djibouti for further arrangements and repatriation.
Significance of the Operation
This operation underscores the Indian Navy’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining maritime security in international waters. INS Trikand’s prompt and effective response highlights the Navy’s capability to undertake complex rescue and firefighting missions far from Indian shores, showcasing professionalism and humanitarian concern.
The Gulf of Aden remains a critical shipping route, often challenged by piracy and maritime emergencies, making the Indian Navy’s presence and readiness vital to ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels and upholding global maritime safety standards.
About INS Trikand
INS Trikand is a frontline warship of the Indian Navy, deployed in high-risk maritime zones to conduct security operations, anti-piracy missions, and humanitarian assistance. Its crew is trained extensively in advanced firefighting, damage control, and Search & Rescue operations, making it an essential asset in safeguarding Indian and allied maritime interests worldwide.
