By Muhammad Mamman
The Sri Lanka Navy has rescued at least 30 people after an Iranian vessel began sinking off the southern coast near Galle, authorities said on Tuesday.
Naval officials confirmed that the distress call was received in the early hours of the morning, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue operation in the waters south of Galle. Patrol craft and fast attack vessels were deployed to the area, where the Iranian-flagged boat was reportedly taking on water amid rough sea conditions.
According to a navy spokesperson, all 30 individuals on board were safely evacuated before the vessel submerged. The rescued passengers were brought ashore for medical evaluation, with no immediate reports of fatalities. Some survivors were treated for mild dehydration and shock.
The cause of the incident remains under investigation. Maritime authorities said initial reports suggest mechanical failure may have contributed to the vessel’s distress, although weather conditions in the region were also described as challenging at the time of the emergency.
Sri Lanka sits along one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, with vessels frequently transiting between the Middle East and Asia. The navy maintains regular patrols in the area to respond to emergencies and combat maritime threats.
Officials said further details, including the vessel’s point of origin and destination, would be released following a formal inquiry.
