Kerala's Rs 6.5 Crore Marine Ambulance Remains Non-Functional Ahead of Monsoon
In Thiruvananthapuram, a high-value marine ambulance stationed at Vizhinjam for deep-sea rescue operations has been rendered non-functional due to incomplete annual maintenance. This situation has sparked serious concerns about the preparedness of coastal emergency response systems as the monsoon season approaches.
Technical Failures and Maintenance Issues
The vessel, deployed by the fisheries department to rescue fisherfolk in distress at sea, has developed multiple technical faults. Reports indicate that these issues arose after the contractor failed to complete the required maintenance work on time. Sources within the department have highlighted that problems with the anchoring system caused the vessel to drift, while critical systems such as the engine, GPS, radar, and public announcement system are either damaged or non-operational.
Designed to transport injured fishermen to shore on stretchers and provide onboard emergency care, the ambulance is currently tied up at the jetty and remains unusable. Essential equipment for rescue operations, including the stretcher and protective systems intended to prevent impact with the jetty during rough seas, has also sustained damage.
Lack of Accountability and Urgent Repairs
Despite the significant failure, there is no clarity on whether penalties have been imposed on the Mumbai-based contractor responsible for the annual maintenance. Fisheries officials have stated that instructions have been issued to complete the work urgently, but they have not specified a deadline for restoring full functionality.
The development has triggered alarm among fishing communities, especially with the monsoon season nearing, when sea conditions become unpredictable and accidents are more frequent. Fishermen have expressed concerns that the absence of a functional rescue vessel could delay emergency responses and endanger lives.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Plans
Sources within the department revealed that some cleaning and minor repair work has been carried out following intervention by senior officials, but major technical issues remain unresolved. The vessel had reportedly accumulated waste in several sections, including operational areas, which required clearance.
A senior official confirmed that the marine ambulance is currently undergoing maintenance and repair work at the Vizhinjam dockyard. She estimated that the process is expected to take about one more month, after which the vessel will be back in service. "We are also considering a change of contractor once the ongoing work is completed," the official added, indicating potential future measures to prevent similar issues.
