Indian Trawler With 11 Crew Runs Aground In Sri Lankan Waters, Navy Launches Rescue

An Indian trawler carrying 11 crew members ran aground in Sri Lankan waters near Delft Island after allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line, prompting the Sri Lanka Navy to launch a rescue operation on Thursday.

The incident took place on Wednesday, August 5, when the fishing vessel became stranded on a coastal reef off Delft Island, also known as Neduntheevu, in the Jaffna region of northern Sri Lanka. According to the Sri Lanka Navy, the trawler had allegedly entered Sri Lankan waters and was involved in bottom trawling before the accident.

Sri Lanka Navy spokesperson Commander Chaminda Walakuluge said the vessel suffered partial structural damage after hitting the reef. However, the situation was not critical, and the fishermen were not in immediate danger. Rescue units were sent to assist the 11 crew members, while further action will be taken according to legal procedures, the navy said.

The incident has again highlighted the long-running India Sri Lanka fishing dispute in the Palk Strait, a narrow waterway separating Tamil Nadu from northern Sri Lanka. Fishermen from both countries have often crossed maritime boundaries while searching for fishing grounds, leading to arrests, boat seizures, and diplomatic discussions.

Delft Island has remained one of the main areas of tension. Sri Lankan authorities have repeatedly intercepted Indian fishing trawlers near the island, accusing them of illegal fishing and bottom trawling. Previous operations in the area have resulted in the seizure of Indian boats and detention of fishermen.

The use of bottom trawling remains a major concern in Sri Lanka, with officials and fishing groups saying the practice can damage the seabed and affect fish stocks. Indian fishermen, especially from Tamil Nadu, have argued that many communities depend on these waters due to traditional fishing routes and limited access to nearby fishing areas.

The fishing dispute is also linked to wider concerns over traditional fishing rights around areas such as Katchatheevu Island, which has remained a sensitive issue between the two countries.