July 11,2025:
Karnataka is set to commission its first sea ambulance by the start of the next fishing season, aiming to bolster emergency healthcare support for coastal communities and fishing crews. The initiative, overseen by the state’s Fisheries Department, is expected to significantly improve response times during maritime emergencies.
The ambulance vessel is currently under construction and is likely to be deployed after the end of the southwest monsoon. It will be stationed along Karnataka’s coastline, which spans over 300 kilometers and includes key fishing zones such as Mangaluru, Karwar, and Udupi.
Once operational, the sea ambulance will be equipped with life-saving medical tools, including oxygen supply systems, defibrillators, and critical care equipment. It will also carry trained paramedics to offer on-board treatment and assist in the swift evacuation of patients from sea to shore-based hospitals.
Officials from the Fisheries Department confirmed that the project is being funded under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) — a central government scheme that supports fisheries infrastructure and welfare across coastal states.
“The sea ambulance will serve as a dedicated emergency response vessel for fishermen at sea. In the event of an accident or health emergency, this service will ensure timely medical attention and safe transportation,” said a senior department official.
Maritime safety has been a pressing concern for Karnataka’s fishing communities, especially during the monsoon and deep-sea operations. Delays in medical access have often resulted in preventable fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for dedicated sea-based health services.
Fishing unions and coastal residents have welcomed the announcement, stating it will bring long-awaited relief to those operating in high-risk maritime environments. The ambulance is expected to enhance the safety net for thousands of active fishermen along the state’s western coastline.
The state government is also reportedly considering future expansion of the service to cover more coastal locations and add night-navigation capabilities, depending on the success of this initial rollout.
With this development, Karnataka joins a select group of Indian states to introduce specialized sea-based ambulance services, marking a milestone in coastal healthcare preparedness and maritime welfare.
