Date:22/09/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/09/22/stories/2005092210880600.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Sri Lankan boat brought to Chennai

Special Correspondent

CHENNAI: A Sri Lankan fishing boat that drifted into Indian waters after its engine failed was rescued by the Coast Guard and towed to Chennai on Wednesday.

The boat and the five crew members will be repatriated on completion of repairs and other formalities.

The engine of the boat failed in Sri Lankan waters and it was drifting since September 16. Following a distress message from the Island naval authorities, the Coast Guard launched a search and rescue operation. The boat was sighted 165 nautical miles south-east of Chennai and towed by ICGS Varaha, according to a defence press release.