Indian Crew Being Evacuated From Vessel Off Oman Coast After Engine Failure
Indian-flagged merchant vessel Virat 1 reportedly had 14 crew members from India, it said
New Delhi: All 14 Indian seafarers onboard an Indian-flagged vessel were rescued off the Oman coast after the boat suffered engine failure and began taking on water, according to official statements.
The vessel, identified as MSV Virat 1, reportedly developed an engine fault and the crew shifted to a liferaft before rescue operations were initiated with the support of Omani authorities. The United States Navy had earlier issued an alert regarding the vessel’s condition, prompting coordinated action.
The Indian Embassy in Oman said, “Rescue operation involving Indian Flagged MSV Virat 1 has been successfully completed. All 14 crew members have been rescued and are presently onboard Jabal Ali 9 heading to Mumbai. The crew members are safe and in good health.”
It had earlier stated, “It has emerged that the vessel experienced an engine failure, and the crew eventually transferred safely to a liferaft. A rescue operation is presently underway through ships in the vicinity, under the coordination of Omani authorities.”
Separately, the Embassy confirmed the death of Indian national Nishanth Uirthanathan due to medical complications onboard merchant vessel MT Celestial at Duqm Port, Oman. He is the fourth Indian seafarer reported dead in West Asia over the past week.
“An Indian national Nishanth Uirthanathan passed away due to medical complications. His mortal remains are currently onboard MT Celestial at Duqm Port. The Embassy has been in continuous contact with the ship management company and is coordinating closely with all concerned stakeholders. Necessary arrangements are being made for the early repatriation of the mortal remains to India. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time,” the Embassy said.
It added, “The Embassy remains in close touch with family members of the Indian national Nishanth Uirthanathan who unfortunately lost his life due to medical conditions, crew members of the vessel and concerned authorities. Efforts are underway to facilitate the earliest possible disembarkation and repatriation of his mortal remains.”