The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has undertaken a successful rescue mission, saving 27 Bangladeshi fishermen who were stranded on their fishing boat at sea.

During patrol at the Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) on Thursday, the Indian Coast Guard Ship Amogh spotted the Bangladeshi fishing boat Sagar II adrift within Indian waters and promptly took action, as per an official statement.

A boarding team from the ICG ship was deployed to investigate the situation. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the fishing boat had experienced a steering gear breakdown for the past two days, causing it to drift into Indian waters.

With 27 crew members and fishermen onboard, efforts were made by the Indian Coast Guard technical team to assess and rectify the issue. However, it was determined that the rudder of the boat was severely damaged and could not be repaired at sea.

Given favorable sea conditions, it was decided to tow the distressed boat to the Indo-Bangladesh IMBL and hand it over to another Bangladeshi fishing boat or the Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship, in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Coast Guard and the Bangladesh Coast Guard.

The Indian Coast Guard Regional Headquarters at Kolkata established communication with the Bangladesh Coast Guard to coordinate the operation. Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship Kamaruzzaman was deployed for the towing of the distressed fishing boat.

Upon arrival near the IMBL, Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship Kamaruzzaman received the 27 Bangladeshi fishermen and their boat from ICGS Amogh.

This successful rescue operation underscores the Indian Coast Guard's commitment to safeguarding lives at sea, reinforcing regional search and rescue efforts, and fostering international cooperation with neighboring countries.

The operation aligns with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard, "VAYAM RAKSHAMAH" or "WE PROTECT."