The Maldives National Defence Force conducted 71 medical evacuations by sea last week, delivering emergency medical assistance to individuals requiring urgent treatment across various regions of the island nation, the military stated in a newly published social media report.
The operations utilised both coastguard squadrons and sea ambulances to facilitate critical inter-island transport. Detailed statistics indicate the First Squadron bore the vast majority of the operational load by completing 48 missions, while the Second, Third, and Fourth Squadrons executed three, 13, and six evacuations, respectively. Specialised vessels were also deployed during this timeframe to supplement the standard fleet, with Sea Ambulance E9 54 successfully completing one medical evacuation.
To mitigate the heightened risk of maritime incidents during periods of adverse weather, the military maintains a 24-hour state of readiness to address emergencies within the country’s territorial waters. Beyond medical transport, the coastguard operates continuously to rescue citizens, recover property, and deliver technical support to vessels experiencing mechanical or technical difficulties at sea. In every such incident, coastguard personnel demonstrate exemplary courage and a high spirit of national service, the military noted in its assessment of the ongoing operations.
These maritime interventions serve as an essential measure in preserving countless lives, effectively mitigating the severe logistical challenges inherent to the nation's decentralised, island-based geography, offering profound relief to residents dispersed throughout the remote atolls.