Summary:
- A tourist aboard the MV The Crown in the Sundarbans experienced severe respiratory distress on December 14, 2024, prompting an emergency call for help.
- The Bangladesh Coast Guard responded promptly by dispatching a medical team with oxygen and essential medicines from the nearby ship Noakhali
- The swift intervention stabilized the tourist’s condition, bringing relief to all passengers and crew on board.
- The incident highlights the Coast Guard’s crucial role in providing emergency services in remote areas of the Sundarbans.
In a commendable display of swift action and dedication, the Bangladesh Coast Guard provided crucial medical assistance to a tourist in distress aboard the vessel MV The Crown in the Sundarbans. The incident unfolded on the night of December 14, 2024, when Rahima Akter, a passenger on the cruise, experienced severe respiratory issues. Her husband, Dr. Ferdous Rahman Sarkar, affiliated with the Directorate General of Health Services, was among those on board.
The vessel had embarked on its journey from Khulna on December 13, aiming to explore the scenic beauty of the Sundarbans. However, as they reached Kotka, Rahima’s condition deteriorated, prompting an urgent call for help to the Bangladesh Coast Guard. Responding promptly, a medical team equipped with essential medicines and oxygen cylinders was dispatched from the Coast Guard ship Noakhali stationed nearby.
Lieutenant Commander Khandaker Munif Taki, the media officer of the Coast Guard headquarters, emphasized their commitment to not only ensuring coastal security but also providing humanitarian aid. He noted that during the tourist season, vessels frequently venture into remote areas of the Sundarbans where access to emergency medical services is challenging. The rapid response by the Coast Guard medical team successfully stabilized Rahima Akter’s condition, much to the relief of her fellow passengers and crew.
The incident highlights the critical role played by the Bangladesh Coast Guard in safeguarding both human lives and maritime security. Their readiness to assist in emergencies has been met with gratitude from those aboard MV The Crown, who expressed their appreciation for the timely intervention.
The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique mangrove ecosystem and rich biodiversity, attracts numerous tourists annually. However, its remote location often poses logistical challenges for emergency services. The Coast Guard’s proactive approach in such scenarios underscores their vital contribution to marine tourism safety and emergency response capabilities in Bangladesh.
As tourism continues to flourish in this region, ensuring robust safety measures and quick access to medical care remains paramount. The Bangladesh Coast Guard’s efforts exemplify a commitment to maintaining these standards and supporting both local and international visitors exploring the natural wonders of the Sundarbans.
Source: Kalbela
