Tragic Maritime Collision: Navy Submarine Strikes Fishing Vessel off Goa Coast

In a dramatic maritime incident on November 21, 2024, an Indian Navy submarine collided with a local fishing vessel, triggering an extensive search and rescue mission off the coast of Goa. The accident has raised critical questions about maritime safety and navigation protocols in busy maritime zones.

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1. Incident Overview

2. Immediate Rescue Response

3. Current Status of Crew Members

4. Preliminary Investigation

5. Broader Implications

6. Ongoing Developments

Incident Overview

The fishing vessel Marthoma, carrying a crew of 13 members, was involved in a critical maritime accident approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of Goa. The collision with the naval submarine led to the vessel’s immediate capsizing, creating an urgent rescue scenario.

Immediate Rescue Response

The Indian Navy swiftly mobilized a comprehensive Search and Rescue (SAR) operation, demonstrating rapid emergency management capabilities. Key elements of the response include:

Deployment of six naval ships
Utilization of multiple aircraft
Coordination with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai
Active support from the Indian Coast Guard

Current Status of Crew Members

Out of the 13 crew members aboard the Marthoma:

11 fishermen have been successfully rescued
2 crew members remain unaccounted for
Ongoing search efforts continue with heightened intensity

Preliminary Investigation

Military and maritime authorities have initiated a high-level inquiry to comprehensively understand the circumstances surrounding the collision. The investigation aims to:

Determine the precise cause of the incident
Assess potential navigational challenges
Evaluate existing maritime safety protocols

Broader Implications

This incident underscores the complex dynamics of maritime operations, particularly in regions with simultaneous naval and fishing activities. It highlights the critical importance of robust communication, navigation systems, and emergency preparedness.

Ongoing Developments

Search and rescue operations remain active, with authorities committed to locating the two missing crew members. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.