Sat Dec 06 13:58:39 UTC 2025: Summary:
Karnataka is set to launch its first sea ambulance by May 2026, with construction underway by a Chennai-based agency. The ₹7.85 crore ambulance, equipped with a powerful 800-HP engine and medical facilities including a mortuary, will provide rapid medical assistance to deep-sea fishing boats. The announcement coincided with the foundation stone laying ceremony for a ₹37.47 crore modernization project at the Mangaluru fishing harbor, funded by both the Union and State governments under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The project includes wharf reconstruction, infrastructure improvements, and the installation of CCTV cameras. Officials also emphasized the importance of developing port facilities and exploring coastal tourism opportunities.
News Article:
Karnataka to Launch Sea Ambulance by May 2026, Modernizes Mangaluru Fishing Harbor
Mangaluru, India – December 6, 2025 – Karnataka is poised to enhance its maritime emergency response capabilities with the launch of its first sea ambulance, expected to be operational by May 2026. Fisheries Minister Mankala S. Vaidya announced the development during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the modernization of the Mangaluru fishing harbor.
The ₹7.85 crore sea ambulance, currently under construction by a Chennai-based agency, will be equipped with a high-powered 800-HP engine, enabling it to reach deep-sea fishing vessels in need of urgent medical assistance much faster than conventional fishing boats. The ambulance will be staffed with paramedical personnel and equipped with essential medical facilities, including a mortuary. It will be stationed at a fisheries port along the Karnataka coast.
The foundation stone laying ceremony also marked the commencement of a ₹37.47 crore modernization project at the Mangaluru fishing harbor, funded under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The Union government will contribute ₹22.48 crore, while the State government will provide the remaining ₹14.98 crore. Key components of the project include the reconstruction of the old wharf, building an overhead tank, sump, and installing drinking water supply, reconstructing the auction hall, construction of auction shelter, constructing sewage treatment and effluent treatment plant, renovating the office of Joint Director of Fisheries, building entrance gate, building fish handling facility, and installation of CCTV cameras.
Speaking at the event, Minister Vaidya stressed the importance of elected officials actively participating in the development of port facilities. Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta highlighted the need to explore opportunities for leveraging the coastal line for tourism in addition to modernizing ports.
The launch of the sea ambulance and the modernization of the Mangaluru fishing harbor represent significant investments in Karnataka’s maritime infrastructure, promising improved safety for fishermen and enhanced economic opportunities for the coastal region.
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