SLNS Sindurala rushed to rescue distressed fishermen of fishing trawler ‘Keshan Putha I’

Amidst unfavourable weather conditions, the multiday fishing trawler 'Keshan Putha I' capsized approximately 354 nautical miles (about 655km) off the coast of Hambantota. Responding promptly, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo coordinated the rescue of 04 fishermen from the distressed trawler. Acting on the directives, the Sri Lanka Navy promptly deployed SLNS Sindurala on 30 Oct 25 for the onward rescue mission.

The trawler had reportedly departed from the Dondra Fisheries Harbour for fishing activities. Meanwhile, the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR) informed MRCC Colombo that the vessel had lost communication and could not be contacted. In response, MRCC Colombo initiated action, alerting the maritime and fishing communities within Sri Lanka's and neighbouring Search and Rescue Regions to assist in locating the trawler and its fishermen.

Meanwhile, an Indonesian fishing trawler managed to rescue 04 of the fishermen after the Keshan Putha I capsized in rough seas. The rescued crew was later handed over to the merchant vessel MV Graceful Star, for instant first aid and basic requirement, through the coordination of MRCC, Colombo. Following directives from the Ministry of Defence, the Sri Lanka Navy deployed SLNS Sindurala for the rescue mission bring them safely ashore.