Boat capsized: Navy rescues fishermen stranded at sea

Fishermen in coastal areas warned to stay ashore due to rough seas amid forecast of heavy rains

QUETTA: Pakistan Navy rescued four fishermen off the Ormara coast on Sunday, a statement issued by the navy said.

According to a Pakistan Navy spokesperson, a fishing vessel by the name of al Ameeri with seven fishermen on board got caught in choppy waters and overturned in the Haft Talar area of the Arabian Sea.

Three of the fishermen were rescued by another fishing vessel operating in the vicinity, but the others were reported missing. Pakistan Navy promptly responded to the call for help by immediately tasking its helicopter for search and rescue (SAR), the navy spokesperson said.

All four missing fishermen were located after an hour and half of SAR, he said, adding that they were moved to the hospital at PNS Darmaan Jah in Ormara. Their condition was reported to be stable.

The local community appreciated the timely response and successful rescue operation which is in line with the finest traditions of Pakistan Navy, the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile the district administrations of coastal areas of Balochistan have told fishermen to stay ashore due to rough seas amid forecast of heavy rains and cyclone.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 27^th, 2015.