A-PAD Qualified SLAF Rescuers’ Mission to Save Stranded Fishermen off Balapitiya Coast
Three fishermen in distress were rescued on May 30 in a high-risk air operation led by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), with two of the rescuers having undergone advanced training through the A-PAD SL Search and Rescue (SAR) programme. The mission was executed under severe weather conditions caused by the ongoing southwest monsoon (SWM), marked by strong winds and rough seas.
The SLAF received an alert from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) at 12:45 p.m., reporting a fishing vessel stranded approximately four nautical miles off the Balapitiya Fisheries Harbour due to engine failure. A Bell-412 helicopter from SLAF’s No. 4 Squadron at Ratmalana was deployed at 1:45 p.m., following instructions from the Ministry of Defence.
The six-member SLAF rescue team included two pilots, two air gunners, and two RSF officers. Notably, Squadron Leader Ishan Silva and Squadron Leader S.S. Rathnayake ,both part of the SLAF team, are also Level 2 certified search and rescuers trained by A-PAD SL.
Two of the fishermen were wearing life jackets, but one was not. Given the unstable condition of the boat and the rough tide the rescuers were unable to land or make a direct approach to the vessel. Instead, they dropped additional life jackets and guided the fishermen to wear them. One by one, the fisherman then jumped into the sea, where they were individually airlifted from the water and brought to safety.
The extreme weather, coupled with poor visibility and the rough sea, made this a particularly challenging operation that demanded precision, experience, and calm under pressure. Thanks to the swift action and professionalism of the team, all three fishermen were safely rescued and later admitted to the Balapitiya Base Hospital for medical evaluation.
This mission highlights the crucial role of specialized SAR training in enhancing operational effectiveness during emergency responses and showcases the impact of ongoing capacity-building efforts in Sri Lanka’s disaster response landscape
Fishermen are taken to Balapitiya Base Hospital for medical support
