The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has initiated a massive search operation after one of its helicopters, with four aircrew members onboard, was forced to make an emergency landing in the Arabian Sea off the Porbandar coast during a rescue mission on Monday night. The helicopter, an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), was deployed for a medical evacuation of a seriously injured crew member from the Indian-flagged Motor Tanker Hari Leela, located about 45 kilometers from Porbandar.
The incident occurred while the helicopter was approaching the vessel for the evacuation. The Coast Guard has confirmed that one diver has been rescued, and his condition is reported to be stable. However, the search for the remaining three crew members, including two pilots and another diver, is still ongoing. Wreckage from the helicopter has been located, and the ICG has deployed four ships and two aircraft to assist in the search and rescue efforts.
The ICG helicopter involved in the incident had recently played a crucial role in saving 67 lives during severe cyclonic weather in Gujarat. The helicopter was launched at around 11:00 p.m. on Monday in response to an emergency request from the master of the Hari Leela. Unfortunately, during the operation, the helicopter encountered difficulties and was forced to make an emergency landing at sea.
The rescue operations are part of a broader effort by the Indian Coast Guard and other agencies to respond to the severe flooding that has affected various parts of Gujarat, including Porbandar and Dwarka districts. Heavy rains have inundated large areas, displacing hundreds of residents and prompting widespread rescue efforts.
In another recent rescue, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) saved 22 people trapped by floodwaters in Chachlana village of Kalyanpur tehsil. The continuous downpour has led to significant challenges in the region, with emergency services working tirelessly to ensure the safety of affected residents.
The Coast Guard’s ongoing search and rescue operation underscores the challenges faced by emergency services in the region as they contend with harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain. The situation remains critical as efforts to locate the missing crew members continue.