The long-standing request from coastal fishermen for a dedicated sea ambulance is finally on track, as the government has initiated tendering for its procurement. The vessel is expected to be stationed at Malpe harbour and will feature facilities to treat up to five patients, along with paramedical staff and a six-member crew, including rescue personnel.
Equipped with advanced medical amenities such as oxygen cylinders, vitals monitoring units, a refrigerator, and stretchers, the sea ambulance will ensure rapid response to emergencies. Dilip Kumar, Deputy Director of Fisheries for Dakshina Kannada, confirmed that boat building yards have been notified of the e-tender.
The sea ambulance will typically cruise at eight knots but can reach a top speed of 14 knots, with an endurance of up to four days. It will also feature a comprehensive suite of safety and navigation tools, including night vision binoculars, distress alert transmitters, emergency beacons, and firefighting equipment. Two life rafts, life jackets, buoys, rocket flares, and smoke signals will further bolster safety.
The vessel’s medical kit will include an automated defibrillator, ventilator, and ECG machine. Acknowledging the need for such a service, an official shared that Kerala already operates marine ambulances, and Malpe was selected as the base due to its large number of operating fishing boats.
This long-awaited addition is expected to be a lifeline for the region’s fishing community.
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