Fishermen Launch Karnataka’s First ‘Boat Ambulance’ Service in Ullal to Save Lives at Sea

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Mangaluru : In a pioneering move to enhance maritime safety, the fishermen of Ullal in Mangaluru have launched Karnataka’s first-ever ‘Boat Ambulance’ service. While sirens are a common sight on city roads during medical emergencies, the lack of immediate transport facilities in the deep sea often leads to fatalities during boat capsizes, fires, or sudden health crises. Recognizing this gap, the Ullal Zone Country Boat and Gillnet Fishermen’s Association has taken the initiative to provide immediate first aid and rapid transportation for injured fishermen from the sea to the shore.

For decades, there has been a persistent demand for sea ambulances along the coast, but government projects faced delays due to technical and financial hurdles. Refusing to wait any longer for official aid, the local fishing community united to design a specialized vessel equipped with essential medical tools. This boat features a siren, red warning lights, a stretcher, oxygen cylinders, a first-aid kit, and life jackets. It also includes a public address system to communicate with other vessels and alert them to clear the path during emergencies.

The service is managed by three highly trained crew members capable of swimming and performing rescues even in turbulent sea conditions. A primary goal of this initiative is to prevent deaths caused by respiratory distress or drowning following accidents. Currently, one boat is operational, but the association aims to expand the service across the district with advanced medical equipment if government funding becomes available. This community-led project now stands as a model for coastal life-saving efforts.