Kakdwip: In a prompt and efficient operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued 182 pilgrims who were stranded on a grounded ferry off Kakdwip in West Bengal on January 16, 2024. The ferry, named ‘Swasthya Sathi,’ was transporting around 400 pilgrims from the Ganga Sagar Mela at Sagar Island to Kakdwip when it ran aground due to extremely poor visibility.
Upon receiving an urgent message from the District Magistrate of South 24 Parganas in the early hours, the ICG operations team swiftly activated their response and dispatched two Air Cushion Vehicles (Hovercrafts) from Haldia and Sagar Island to provide assistance. The hovercrafts efficiently evacuated 182 pilgrims and guided the stranded ferry, with the remaining pilgrims, to a safe destination.
To enhance safety measures during the annual Ganga Sagar Mela, the ICG had strategically deployed sea-borne units at various locations. A rapid lifesaving action team, equipped with divers and a Gemini boat, was stationed at the Mela site to respond to any emergency. Additionally, an officer from the ICG Ship Frazerganj was positioned at Sagar Island to coordinate with the state administration and supervise seafront safety aspects.