Indian Coast Guard Rescues 14 Fishermen from Fire-Stricken Boat off Maharashtra Coast

Mumbai, 28th February 2025: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued 14 fishermen from a major fire onboard the fishing boat Ekvira Mauli (IND-MH-3-MM-4922) off the Maharashtra coast early this morning. The rescue operation, carried out by ICG Ship Savitribai Phule, averted a potential maritime tragedy.

At approximately 6:35 AM, ICGS Savitribai Phule, which was patrolling the area, observed thick smoke on the horizon. The vessel immediately altered course and sped toward the location. Upon reaching the site at 7:15 AM, the crew found Ekvira Mauli engulfed in flames, with dense smoke billowing from the boat. A swift assessment revealed that the fire had originated in the engine room around 5:00 AM, trapping the fishermen onboard.

Demonstrating rapid crisis response, the ICG personnel safely evacuated all 14 fishermen onto the nearby fishing vessel Dhana Laxmi. The rescued crew members, some of whom had suffered burn injuries, were provided first aid, reassurance, and necessary assistance.

Meanwhile, the ICG team launched a two-hour firefighting operation, utilizing the ship’s advanced firefighting capabilities to douse the flames successfully. Once the fire was extinguished, the crew worked to stabilize the distressed boat by pumping out excess water to prevent it from sinking.

To ensure the safe recovery of Ekvira Mauli, the Coast Guard coordinated a towing operation. At 9:55 AM, the fishing vessel Kalamba Mauli (IND-MH-06-MM-8324) initiated the towing process toward Alibaug harbour, escorted by another fishing boat, Kalyani (IND-MH-3-MM-3959).