ICGS Gandhi, MV Scan Brasil honoured at SAR meeting in Goa

Panaji, May 8 (UNI) Indian Coastal Guard Ship ''Kasturba Gandhi'' and Merchant Vessel (MV) Scan Brasil were awarded search and rescue awards at the seventh meeting of the National Search and Rescue Board, held under the presidentship of Vice-Admiral R F Contractor, the Director General of Indian Coast Guard.

''Kasturba Gandhi'' was awarded the Essar SAR award, sponsored by Essar Shipping Limited for saving the men on board and evacuation of a patient, who was suffering from Myocardial infarction. The Indian Coast Guard SAR award was bagged by MV Scan Brasil for rescue of 12 crew members of MV Gerudu Empire, which sunk due to flooding.

The meeting focused on working out the cost effective and viable safety mechanism for fishing craft. Safety of ships over 20 years of age was also one of the key issue discussed. The Board also reviewed the trial reports submitted by the Coast Guard Regional commanders on the low cost Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT), developed by ISRO for small fishing boats and explored modification of its software for effective usage and improved battery life.

Altogether 35 members, representing 13 organisations -- DG Shipping, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and stakeholders, comprising coastal states sailing and fishing vessels association were present at the meeting.

UNI SRN RN RR AS2052