The body of the missing pilot of the Indian Coast Guard was recovered yesterday 55 kilometres south-west of Porbandar, Gujarat. According to the Indian Coast Guard, it continued unrelenting search efforts along with the Indian Navy and other stakeholders to locate missing pilot Commandant Rakesh Kumar Rana. The Advanced Light Helicopter MK-III helicopter fell into the sea on the night of the second of last month when it took off to provide medical aid to a crew member of a motor tanker, Hari Leela.

 

The helicopter had two pilots and two aircrew divers. After the accident, the Indian Coast Guard launched a massive search and rescue operation, during which one crew was rescued from the sea. The mortal remains of Commandant Vipin Babu and Pradhan Navik Karan Singh were recovered from the sea on 3rd September. The Indian Coast Guard said more than 70 air sorties and 82 ship days involving several ships were tasked with locating the missing pilot. It said the mortal remains of Commandant Rakesh Kumar Rana will be cremated as per service traditions and honour. The Indian Coast Guard saluted the three brave souls who laid down their lives in the line of duty.