Indian Navy’s Swift Action Saves 14 Lives in Arabian Sea
The Indian Navy once again rose to the occasion, responding swiftly to a life-threatening emergency at sea. On June 29, 2025, a major fire broke out on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6, endangering 14 Indian crew members. Thanks to the quick intervention by INS Tabar, the Navy brought the fire under control and rescued all crew members safely.
Distress Call Sparks Immediate Naval Mobilization
At around dawn on June 29, MT Yi Cheng 6 sent out a Mayday distress call. The tanker had suffered an engine room fire about 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, near the coast of the UAE.
Responding without delay, INS Tabar altered its course and reached the site at maximum speed. Once nearby, the crew established contact with the ship’s master and immediately prepared for firefighting and rescue operations.
Crew Rescued, Fire Contained with Precision
Within minutes, INS Tabar launched boats to evacuate seven crew members from the burning ship. The naval medical team examined them onboard, and fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Meanwhile, a six-member naval firefighting team boarded the vessel with advanced equipment. They collaborated with the remaining crew to reduce the fire’s intensity. The initial efforts paid off, but smoke still lingered in the engine room.
To ensure complete safety, the Navy dispatched 13 more personnel, including officers and sailors. With their combined efforts, the team successfully confined the fire to the engine room.
Continued Support and Vigilant Monitoring
Even after controlling the blaze, INS Tabar stayed on-site. The crew continued monitoring temperature levels to avoid flare-ups. Their readiness to stay alert highlights the Navy’s commitment to safety beyond immediate emergencies.
This mission stands as another example of the Indian Navy’s first responder role in the Indian Ocean Region. It reflects a balance of technical skill, human compassion, and operational speed.
Proactive Leadership in Maritime Safety
The Indian Navy’s approach to maritime emergencies shows leadership that saves lives. Not only did they stop the fire from spreading, but they also ensured that each crew member returned unharmed. Such coordination between naval personnel and the ship’s crew reveals the strength of India’s maritime crisis response.
