Indian Seafarers To Be Honored For Exceptional Bravery At Sea By IMO

July 12, 2024 – The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recognized the exceptional bravery and courage of Indian seafarers in its 2024 Bravery at Sea awards. On July 10, 2024, Captain Avhilash Rawat and the crew of the oil tanker Marlin Luanda were honored for their extraordinary bravery, leadership, and determination in a life-threatening situation.

On January 26, 2024, the Marlin Luanda, carrying 84,147 tons of naphtha, was struck by an anti-ship missile while en route from Suez to Incheon. The explosion ignited a cargo tank, creating a severe fire hazard. Captain Rawat organized firefighting efforts, ensuring the crew’s safety and maintaining the ship’s navigability. Despite significant damage, the crew managed to control the fire using foam monitors and seawater.

After four and a half hours, assistance arrived from the merchant tanker Achilles, French frigate FS Alsace, U.S. frigate USS Carney, and Indian warship INS Visakhapatnam. Despite the fire reigniting, trained Indian Navy firefighters, along with the Marlin Luanda crew, extinguished the fire and sealed a hull breach. Twenty-four hours after the strike, the Marlin Luanda sailed to safety under naval escort.

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Captain Brijesh Nambiar and the crew of INS Visakhapatnam were awarded a Letter of Commendation for their remarkable courage in joining the firefighting efforts. Their effective use of equipment and personnel prevented loss of life and a serious marine pollution incident.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, expressed pride and appreciation for the honored seafarers and the Indian Navy. “This recognition by the IMO highlights the extraordinary bravery and professionalism of Indian seafarers. Their actions have not only saved lives and prevented environmental disasters but have also brought immense pride to our nation. We salute their dedication and heroism,” he stated.

The annual awards ceremony will be held at IMO Headquarters in London on December 2, 2024, during the 109th session of the Maritime Safety Committee.