Heroic Indian Navy Rescues Crew from Blaze on Palau-flagged Tanker

The Indian Navy executed a perilous firefighting and rescue operation aboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6, safeguarding 14 Indian crew members on June 29, according to a Defence Ministry release. In the early morning hours of June 29, 2025, INS Tabar, on a mission-based deployment, received a Mayday call from the tanker, which reported a significant fire in its engine room approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE.

INS Tabar responded promptly, racing to the scene to offer assistance. Upon arrival, the crew established communication with the tanker's Master and began firefighting efforts, according to the release. Prioritizing crew safety, seven crew members were immediately evacuated to INS Tabar using the ship's boats. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all crew members received medical examinations aboard Tabar.

While the Master and remaining crew stayed to assist with containment, INS Tabar dispatched a six-member team equipped for firefighting and damage control. The Defence Ministry noted that initial efforts significantly reduced the fire's intensity, confining smoke to the engine room. The firefighting operation was reinforced with 13 additional Indian Navy personnel. Their sustained efforts successfully controlled the blaze, with ongoing temperature checks and monitoring. INS Tabar continues to provide support, underscoring the Indian Navy's rapid response capabilities and commitment to maritime safety and humanitarian missions, reaffirming India's status as a key responder in the Indian Ocean Region.

(With inputs from agencies.)