A cargo boat carrying supplies to Fuvahmulah issued a distress call after beginning to sink in rough seas, prompting a response from the Maldives Police Service and the Maldives National Defence Force.
The vessel Raasthaa was approximately 12 nautical miles off the coast of Fuvahmulah when the call was received. Five people were on board – four Maldivians and one foreigner. Authorities said efforts were under way to stabilise the vessel and ensure the safety of those aboard.
The incident occurred amid deteriorating weather. The Met Office had issued alerts for heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds across parts of the country. Seafarers had been advised to exercise caution and ensure vessels were properly equipped.
No injuries were reported in initial accounts. The episode highlights the challenges faced by inter-island cargo transport during periods of unsettled weather.
