Rescue Underway for Stricken Sri Lankan Fishing Vessel 'Meenu Baba 1'

COLOMBO (Nesws 1st); Efforts are underway to rescue a group of fishermen aboard the distressed multi-day fishing vessel “Meenu Baba 1,” which is currently stranded at sea after encountering technical difficulties, according to Deputy Minister of Fisheries Rathna Gamage.

The Deputy Minister stated that the vessel is located approximately 100 nautical miles offshore, as authorities continue to coordinate a response to the unfolding situation.

Initial reports indicate that the boat has suffered a failure in its internal electrical system, leaving it disabled and unable to operate normally.

Gamage confirmed that the Sri Lanka Navy has been informed of the situation, while fisheries officials have also alerted nearby vessels to assist in the rescue operation.

Instructions have been issued for the closest available boat to reach the affected location, assess the condition of the stranded vessel, and safely transfer the crew members on board.

Authorities are also exploring measures to secure the disabled vessel by anchoring it to a buoy, ensuring its stability while rescue and recovery operations progress.

The Fisheries Ministry is actively coordinating with the Navy and other relevant stakeholders to facilitate a swift and effective intervention.

The fishermen aboard “Meenu Baba 1” had departed from the Beruwala fishing harbour on April 26. Communication between the crew and their families was lost after May 14, raising growing concern over their safety.