Padmesh Prabhune –
The Indian Navy in a joint operation with the Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre, (MRCC), Mumbai successfully evacuated a critically injured Chinese crewmember (51 Yrs) from the Panama flagged Bulk Carrier ZHONG SHAN MEN, 200nm (approx 370km) from Mumbai, while en route to port of Sohar, Oman.
According to reports, MRCC Mumbai received a distress call on 23 July 2024 from the bulk carrier reporting heavy blood loss due to critical injury to a mariner and requesting immediate evacuation.
Responding to the medical emergency, National SAR plan was activated by Indian Coast Guard and coordinated with by the Indian Navy. A Seaking helicopter was launched from the Indian Navy Air Station Shikra at 0550 hrs on Wednesday July 24, 2024.
Challenging weather conditions with winds over 45 knots & heavy rolling of the ship were compounded by non-availability of continuous deck space. The patient was successfully airlifted from the bridge wing of the vessel and transported back to the air station, and subsequently shifted to hospital for further medical management. ICGS Samrat in the area was also diverted to render assistance.
The patient was last reported to be stable.
Marex Media