A major search and rescue operation is underway after an Indian Navy submarine collided with a fishing vessel, Marthoma, approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of Goa on Thursday. The collision, involving submarine PM 21, left two crew members from the vessel missing, prompting an extensive response from the Navy and Coast Guard.
Immediate Response
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the incident in a statement:
“Coordinated Search and Rescue efforts for the remaining two crew members of Marthoma, which reportedly collided with an Indian Naval submarine PM 21 on November 21, 2024, about 70 nm northwest of Goa, are in progress. Additional assets, including those from the Coast Guard, have been diverted to the area to augment the efforts.”
Following the collision, the Indian Navy launched a comprehensive Search and Rescue (SAR) operation. Six ships and aircraft were initially deployed to the area to assist in locating the fishing vessel’s crew members. Eleven out of the 13 crew members aboard Marthoma have been rescued so far. Efforts to locate the remaining two continue with the coordination of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai.
Expanded Efforts
The search and rescue operation has been intensified, with additional resources from the Coast Guard joining the effort. Helicopters, ships, and surveillance aircraft have been mobilised to scour the area for signs of the missing crew members.
The MoD added, “Search and Rescue efforts for the remaining two are underway and are being coordinated with MRCC (Mumbai). Additional assets have been diverted to the area to augment the efforts.”
The condition of the Marthoma vessel and the specifics of the submarine’s involvement have not yet been disclosed. Investigators are working to determine the cause of the collision, while the Navy remains focused on the immediate rescue efforts.
Fishing Community on Alert
The incident has raised concerns among Goa’s fishing community, which frequently operates in the area. Maritime safety protocols and communication between naval vessels and civilian fishing boats are expected to come under scrutiny following this incident.
Several fishing organisations have called for improved measures to prevent such occurrences, including better coordination and safety guidelines for naval and civilian vessels operating in proximity.
Tactical Exercise Highlights Navy’s Capabilities
In an unrelated development on the same day, the Indian Navy successfully conducted the tactical phase of Sea Vigil-24 at Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. The exercise simulated a VVIP hostage situation, with swift action taken by CISF personnel, Indian Army snipers, and Victoria Memorial staff.
The operation demonstrated robust inter-agency coordination and readiness to respond to security threats, underscoring the Navy’s operational capabilities even as it deals with the aftermath of the collision off Goa.
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Investigation Underway
While the immediate focus remains on rescuing the two missing crew members, a formal inquiry into the collision has been initiated. Details on the operational status of the submarine and the fishing vessel are expected to emerge as investigations progress.
The incident highlights the challenges of operating naval vessels in areas frequented by civilian maritime traffic. Efforts to ensure the safety of both naval operations and local fishing activities are likely to be prioritised in the coming months.
Broader Implications
The collision has once again brought maritime safety into the spotlight, particularly in regions where naval and civilian vessels share the waters. Questions about protocols for navigation, communication, and emergency response are expected to arise as the investigation unfolds.
For now, hopes rest on the success of the ongoing search and rescue operation. Families of the missing fishermen, as well as the broader fishing community, await updates with apprehension as authorities work tirelessly to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks of maritime operations, calling for vigilance and collaboration to prevent future occurrences.
