China Appreciates Indian Navy’s Heroic Rescue Operation & Timely Medical Aid For Injured Chinese Mariner

China has expressed its “heartfelt appreciation” to the Indian Navy for their courageous efforts in rescuing a seriously injured Chinese mariner from a bulk carrier in the Arabian Sea.

The Indian Navy’s quick and professional response ensured that the mariner, who had sustained major blood loss, received timely medical attention and is currently in stable condition.

The incident occurred on July 24, when the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai received an urgent distress call from the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Zhong Shan Men.

The vessel, approximately 370 kilometers (200 nautical miles) from Mumbai, reported a major injury to a 51-year-old Chinese mariner who was bleeding excessively.

#IndianNavy successfully evacuates a Critically injured #Chinese Mariner from Bulk Carrier ZHONG SHAN MEN, 200nm (approx 370km) from #Mumbai.
Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre, Mumbai received a distress call on PM #23Jul 24 from the bulk carrier reporting heavy blood loss… pic.twitter.com/FyhlgnEUUR

— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) July 24, 2024

Video Credits: Indian Navy/X

At 05:50, the Indian Navy dispatched a Sea King helicopter from the Indian Naval Air Station (INS) Shikra to respond to the incident.

The operation was hindered by difficult weather circumstances, including winds exceeding 45 mph and heavy rolling of the ship.

Furthermore, the vessel lacked a clear landing spot on its deck, complicating the rescue efforts. Despite the hurdles, the helicopter safely airlifted the injured mariner from the ship’s bridge wing.

The patient was taken back to INS Shikra and then transferred to a hospital for further medical care. The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Samrat, which was nearby, was also diverted to assist in the operation.

Lin Jian, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, expressed appreciation on behalf of the Chinese government, praising the Indian Navy and related departments for their quick and effective action.

Lin stated that the Indian side quickly came to the rescue and supplied the patient with timely medical aid and that he is now in stable condition and recovering in China.

The successful evacuation highlights the effective collaboration between MRCC Mumbai and the Indian Navy, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and humanitarian commitment even amid geopolitical tensions.

Reference: The Hindu, Indian Express