Port Blair, March 9: The Coast Guard component of HQ Andaman and Nicobar Command undertook Search and Rescue operation of MFV Sri Lalitha, which was drifting 18 nm from Little Andaman Island due to a defective engine. The boat had sailed out from Junglighat on 02 Mar 22 with 06 crew onboard for fishing. MFV Sri Lalitha reported the distress to Coast Guard on 05 Mar 22 using Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT).

On receipt of DAT alert, HQ Andaman and Nicobar Command directed Coast Guard Ship C-146 for assistance. As the defect could not be rectified at sea due to non-availability of spares onboard the fishing boat, the boat was towed by Coast Guard Ship to Hutbay harbour, on 06 Mar 22. All crew returned safely due to timely and swift action by Coast Guard.

The HQ Andaman and Nicobar Command is committed towards ensuring safety of life and property at sea around Andaman and Nicobar Islands.