A significant maritime incident unfolded off the coast of Goa when a fishing vessel, Marthoma, collided with an Indian Navy submarine on the evening of November 21. The collision occurred approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of Goa, leading to a large-scale rescue operation aimed at locating two missing crew members from the fishing boat.
According to a spokesperson from the Indian Navy, the fishing vessel was carrying a total of 13 crew members at the time of the incident. Fortunately, 11 crew members were successfully rescued in the immediate aftermath, but search efforts continue for the other two individuals who remain unaccounted for. The Navy has coordinated these search operations with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) based in Mumbai.
In response to the incident, the Navy has initiated a high-level investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the collision. Additional resources have been mobilized to support the ongoing rescue efforts, which include the deployment of six Indian Navy ships and multiple surveillance aircraft. The Coast Guard has also been involved, providing further assistance in the operation.
The submarine involved in the incident is a Scorpene-class vessel, part of India’s naval fleet and known for its advanced capabilities. These submarines play a vital role in various naval operations, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and area surveillance. With their stealthy design and low noise levels, they pose a significant threat in maritime conflicts.
Details regarding the specific conditions of the missing crew members and the overall status of the fishing vessel have not been shared by the Navy. This incident highlights the complexities and significant risks associated with naval operations and fishing activities in busy maritime areas.
Previously, similar maritime incidents have occurred in the region; for instance, in August, a fishing boat collided with a Sri Lankan naval vessel off the coast of Tamil Nadu, resulting in the death of one fisherman. As the search for the missing crew members continues, the Navy is expected to provide updates as more information becomes available.
