Showcasing swift operational readiness and a firm commitment to seafarer safety, the Indian Navy carried out a high-risk firefighting and rescue operation aboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 in the North Arabian Sea on June 29, successfully containing the situation and safeguarding all 14 Indian crew members.
In the early hours of June 29, INS Tabar, on mission-based deployment, received a Mayday distress call from MT Yi Cheng 6.
The vessel reported a major fire outbreak in its engine room whilst operating approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, read a statement issued by the Indian government.
Responding swiftly, INS Tabar proceeded at maximum speed to provide assistance.
The ship reached in vicinity of the distressed vessel and upon arrival established communication with the Master of the vessel and commenced firefighting operations.
Prioritising crew safety, seven crew members were immediately evacuated to INS Tabar using the ship’s boats.
No injuries were reported, and all crew were examined by Tabar’s medical team.
The remaining crew members, including the Master, stayed onboard to assist with fire containment.
Damage Control Team
INS Tabar deployed a six-member firefighting and damage control team with firefighting equipment.
Initial firefighting efforts from the Indian Naval personnel and the ship’s crew resulted in a considerable reduction in the intensity of the fire, with smoke restricted to the engine room.
The firefighting effort was further reinforced with 13 additional Indian Navy personnel (five officers and eight sailors).
Sustained efforts by the Indian Navy’s firefighting team, along with crew members, have successfully brought the fire under control.
Continuous temperature checks and monitoring are being undertaken. INS Tabar remains on station for continued support.
The valiant effort of Indian Naval personnel has ensured the safety of the ship along with all Indian crew members.
This incident once again highlights the Indian Navy’s rapid response capability, operational preparedness, humanitarian approach to maritime safety and reaffirms India’s role as the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.
(With inputs from IBNS)
