Padubidri: In a dramatic rescue operation, social worker and sea rescuer Eshwar Malpe entered the Arabian Sea and safely brought ashore a 38-year-old man who had been swimming offshore for nearly three hours on Sunday.
The rescued man was identified as Yathish, a resident of Kaadipatta and a former lifeguard at Padubidri Blue Flag Beach.
Fishermen struggle to bring man back
According to locals, Yathish had attempted similar acts once or twice in the past, when residents intervened and brought him safely back to shore.
On Sunday afternoon, Yathish entered the Arabian Sea as coastal residents watched. Fishermen who arrived by boat from Kaup made repeated attempts for more than half an hour to bring him aboard, but were unsuccessful.
After being alerted, Sadashiva of Padubidri contacted Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, who immediately sought the assistance of Eshwar Malpe.
Eshwar swims three nautical miles to rescue him
Eshwar reached Padubidri Beach at around 2.15 pm and entered the sea. He swam approximately three nautical miles towards Yathish and persuaded him to return through a calm and reassuring conversation.
Eshwar then swam back alongside Yathish and brought him safely ashore at around 3.15 pm.
Local swimmers and Blue Flag Beach lifeguards Prajwal, Sushanth and Badal assisted in the rescue operation.
Locals seek better emergency equipment
Following the rescue, Ashok Salyan, president of the Kadipatt Mogaveera Sabha, thanked Eshwar Malpe on behalf of the village.
Coastal Security Police and Home Guards also visited the spot. Locals expressed concern over the absence of a speedboat for emergency rescue operations with the Coastal Security Police.
Yathish was subsequently shifted to Dr A V Baliga Hospital in Udupi for further treatment.
The rescue once again highlighted the importance of trained rescuers and timely intervention when emergencies occur along the coast.