ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) TARIQ, while patrolling in the Gulf of Aden, observed a stranded cargo dhow/boat namely ABDAIHAN of Yemen. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the boat left Boosaaso (Somalia) on November 10 for transporting fish to Al Mukalla (Yemen).
During voyage at sea, her propulsion got non-operational due to the loss of the propeller. The dhow had been drifting for the last ten days and was left with no edibles and drinking water.
Subsequently, PNS TARIQ provided sufficient food items and drinking water along with ready meals to the crew of the dhow. Furthermore, Yemeni Coast Guard and owner of the dhow were informed of recovery of the ship. PNS TARIQ also conducted the towing operation for 10 hours in rough sea conditions and left the dhow close to the Somalian shores for further assistance by Somalian authorities.
Master and crew of the boat thanked PNS TARIQ for timely assistance.
Naval forces, owing to their inherent attributes of rapid mobilisation, reach and endurance, coupled with their sealift capability, are extremely useful in the humanitarian assistance. Pakistan Navy maintains a high degree of readiness, both in peace and war, to undertake a range of military, constabulary, diplomatic and benign operations.