The tanker was operating approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, when it sent out a Mayday distress call in the early hours of June 29, reporting a severe fire in its engine room
Pic/Indian Navy
The Indian Navy carried out a critical firefighting and rescue operation on June 29 aboard the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Yi Cheng 6, successfully saving 14 Indian crew members and stabilising the vessel following a major fire in the engine room. The operation was led by the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tabar, underscoring the Navy’s rapid response capabilities and commitment to maritime safety in the region.
The tanker was operating approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, when it sent out a Mayday distress call in the early hours of June 29, reporting a severe fire in its engine room. INS Tabar, which was on a mission-based deployment in the area, responded immediately and proceeded at maximum speed toward the stricken vessel.
Upon arrival, Tabar established communication with the ship’s Master and launched immediate firefighting efforts. Seven crew members were swiftly evacuated to the naval vessel using ship’s boats. All were found to be in stable condition after being examined by the ship’s medical team. The remaining crew, including the Master, remained onboard to support containment efforts.
A six-member Indian Navy firefighting and damage control team initially boarded the vessel with specialist equipment. Their early intervention succeeded in significantly reducing the intensity of the fire, containing the smoke in the engine room. As the situation evolved, INS Tabar reinforced the operation with an additional 13 personnel, including five officers and eight sailors.
Working closely with the ship's crew, the Indian Navy team brought the fire under control through sustained efforts. Continuous temperature monitoring is ongoing to ensure there is no resurgence. INS Tabar remains stationed in the area to provide continued support and ensure the vessel’s safety.
The successful operation highlighted the Indian Navy’s swift operational readiness, professionalism, and humanitarian approach to ensuring the safety of seafarers. It also reaffirmed India’s role as a reliable and capable first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.
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