Indian Coast Guard Rescues 6 Fishermen Off Mangaluru in Challenging Operation

June 30, 2026

Mangaluru: In a swift maritime search and rescue operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued six fishermen after a fishing boat began flooding in rough seas off the coast of Mangaluru, officials said on Tuesday.

The incident occurred on Monday when the fishing boat IFB Manju Matha sustained hull damage and started taking on water amid adverse weather conditions.

The Indian Coast Guard immediately diverted ICGS Sachet to the location, reaching the distressed vessel within 90 minutes to launch the rescue operation.

Fishing Boat Floods in Rough Seas

According to the Coast Guard, the rescue mission was carried out under extremely challenging conditions, with rough seas, strong winds, poor visibility and approaching darkness making the operation difficult.

Despite the adverse weather, the crew of ICGS Sachet successfully executed the rescue with precision and coordination.

Using advanced rescue equipment, including remotely operated lifebuoys designed for harsh sea conditions, the Coast Guard safely reached and evacuated all six fishermen.

All Six Fishermen Rescued Safely

By 6 p.m., all six crew members had been rescued without any injuries. Following the successful operation, ICGS Sachet proceeded to New Mangalore for the safe disembarkation of the rescued fishermen and completion of necessary formalities.

The Indian Coast Guard said the operation reflects its commitment to safeguarding lives at sea and demonstrated the effective use of modern rescue technology alongside the professionalism and training of its personnel.

The force reiterated its motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), stating that it remains committed to maintaining constant vigilance across India’s maritime domain and responding swiftly to emergencies at sea.

Recent Rescue Operation Off Tamil Nadu

The Coast Guard also highlighted another recent maritime rescue carried out on June 27, when it responded to a distress call from cargo vessel MV SITTHAA, which reported flooding in multiple compartments off the coast of Tiruchendur in Tamil Nadu.

ICG Ship Atulya was deployed to assist the vessel. A specialist boarding team coordinated with salvage experts, monitored emergency repairs and dewatering operations, and ensured the flooding remained under control before advising the vessel to proceed to Tuticorin Port for permanent repairs.

About the Rescue Operation

The rescue was launched after fishing boat IFB Manju Matha suffered hull damage and began flooding in rough seas off Mangaluru on June 29. The Indian Coast Guard diverted ICGS Sachet, which reached the vessel within 90 minutes despite severe weather conditions. Using advanced rescue equipment, the crew safely evacuated all six fishermen without injuries, underscoring the Coast Guard’s preparedness and capability in handling maritime emergencies.