Mangaluru : Indian Coast Guard ship Rajdoot on Wednesday rescued 23 crew members on board fishing vessel (ex-IFB NSG reg no KA04MM2473) which had gone adrift due to engine failure.

The incident was reported to the Coastal Security Police at Bhatkal which gave the vessel’s position some 30 nautical miles from Mavinakurve.

ICGS Rajdoot that was on patrol off Karnataka and Goa coast was diverted to the incident site. On arrival at the spot, the technical team of Rajdoot embarked IFB and provided technical support. However, the engine could not be started.

All the 23 crew on board the fishing boat were reported safe. Coast Guard authorities then requested IFB Pavan Sutta (Reg no KA02MM1826) that was fishing in the vicinity for towing assistance. At present, the fishing boat is being towed to Bhatkal. IFB SDY is also providing assistance to the Coast Guard, DIG S S Dasila, commander, Coast Guard Karnataka, said.