The 58-meter Comoros-flagged cargo vessel Sitthaa was successfully rescued after suffering flooding in several compartments off the southeast coast of India on June 27. The incident occurred near Tiruchendur, prompting an immediate response from the Indian Coast Guard.
Following the distress alert, the Indian Coast Guard deployed ICGS Atulya to assist the vessel. A specialized boarding and damage-control team was transferred aboard Sitthaa, where they worked alongside professional salvors to contain the flooding and continuously dewater the affected compartments.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the rescue teams, the situation was brought under control without injuries to the crew. All seafarers aboard the vessel were reported safe, and no signs of marine pollution were detected during the operation.
After emergency stabilization, the 58-meter cargo vessel was escorted safely to Tuticorin Port, where it arrived on June 28 for extensive repairs and a full technical inspection.
Throughout the operation, the Indian Coast Guard maintained close coordination with the vessel’s master, port authorities, and the salvage company to ensure the safety of the crew, protect the vessel, and minimize any environmental risks.
The successful rescue highlights the importance of rapid emergency response and effective cooperation between coast guard units and salvage specialists. Their timely intervention prevented the loss of the vessel and avoided a potentially more serious maritime incident.
