Four fishermen aboard a fishing vessel that went missing following the impact of Cyclone Arnab have been rescued safely from deep-sea waters, approximately 200 nautical miles off the coast of Pottuvil, the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources announced.
The vessel had lost communication with the shore after encountering adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and rough seas associated with the cyclone, the Ministry noted.
The vessel departed from Kaduwela Fisheries Harbour on October 21, undertaking a four-day fishing operation with four crew members on board.
Following the receipt of information regarding the vessel's disappearance, the Fisheries Department's Search and Rescue Coordination Centre initiated the necessary response, with the full intervention of the Ministry.
A coordinated search and rescue operation was subsequently launched involving the Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Coast Guard and other fishing vessels operating in the relevant maritime region.
The joint operation successfully located the missing vessel and its four crew members today in waters approximately 200 nautical miles off Pottuvil.
The Fisheries Ministry confirmed that all four fishermen were safe and in good health. Arrangements have also been made to provide them with necessary preliminary medical examinations and first aid, while measures are underway to bring them safely ashore.
The Ministry extended its appreciation to the Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Coast Guard and members of the fishing community for their cooperation and contribution towards the successful conclusion of the rescue operation.
In a related advisory, the Fisheries Ministry urged all fishermen to exercise heightened caution when undertaking fishing activities, particularly in view of increasingly unpredictable weather conditions and sudden cyclonic developments at sea.
Fishermen have been advised to closely monitor daily weather warnings issued by the Department of Meteorology and the Department of Fisheries and to ensure that all communication equipment is fully operational before departing for fishing activities.
The Ministry further emphasised the importance of adhering to maritime safety precautions to minimise risks to fishing vessels and crew members during adverse weather conditions.
