A passenger vessel carrying 40 people on board reported engine failure earlier today.
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has confirmed the successful evacuation of 40 individuals from the passenger vessel Lifeline, which became stranded at sea en route from Malé to Lh. Naifaru due to engine failure.
The incident occurred east of K. Kaashidhoo, and MNDF received the distress alert at approximately 08:15 hours. Upon receiving the call, the Coast Guard’s First Squadron under the Northern Area Command was promptly deployed.
A total of 40 passengers, comprising nine children, six women, and 10 men, were safely transferred to Lh. Naifaru by 13:10 hours using two harbour craft vessels and a Gulf Craft operated by the Coastguard.
MNDF reports that all passengers are in good health. Towing operations are currently underway to relocate Lifeline to Naifaru harbour.
With adverse sea conditions prevailing across the region, MNDF has reiterated its advisory for vessels to avoid non-essential voyages and to exercise heightened caution during this period of rough weather.
