The Coast Guard today evacuated a Liberian vessel crew-member, suffering from appendicitis, to provide him medical aid, near coastal town of Mangrol off the Gujarat coast.
"An information was received through Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Center (MRCC) of Mumbai regarding requirement of evacuation of a patient, suffering from Appendicitis, from a Motor Tanker named MT Karolos, which was flying Liberian flag and was on passage from Ras Laffan of Qatar to Korea," a statement issued by Defence PRO Ahmedabad said.
"The vessel was about 140 nautical miles from South-West of Mangrol off Gujarat coast. Considering the critical condition of the patient, the ship was directed by MRCC to head at best speed towards Mangrol," it said.
"The ICG Advanced Light Helicopter at Porbandar was made to stand by for evacuation prior to sun set. The shipping agent of the ship was also liaised for medical assistance at Porbandar. During the passage, the ICG medical staff from Mumbai continued monitoring the situation and provided medical advice," it said.
The helicopter was launched from Porbandar and later when it reached the vessel about 55 miles south west of Mangrol, it evacuated the patient by winching him up, it added.
The aircraft brought the patient to Coast Guard Air Enclave at Porbandar and handed him over to the shipping agent.
The condition of the patient has been reported to be stable, it said, adding, the operation was coordinated by the Coast Guard Regional Headquarters, North West, Gandhinagar.
