Two ships started sailing to Djibouti for evacuating Indians from strife torn Yemen. The ships started today after getting instructions from Union Government to the Kochi Port Trust authorities.
Both ships, MV Kavarati and MV Corals could evacuate a total of 1200 passengers. Fuel, food, water, medicine and other commodities for facing the evacuation process were collected in the night itself and the first ship, MV Corals sailed by 7.30 am today. And the second ship MV Kavarati sailed by 9.30 am. It is expected that the ships could reach Djibouti port within 5 to 7 days.
Indian Navy will provide escort and security to the ships in the international waters. According to Kochi Port Trust sources, the ships will proceed to Djibouti, which is the nearest port about 750 KM away from Yemen boundary. But it may be changed as per the evacuation plan of the Government. There is a 150 member crew in the ships, which is inclusive of doctors and nurses also.