Timely action by a Navy officer saved a person from drowning at Vypeen beach on Saturday evening.
Lt. Rahul Dalal, Navigating Officer of INS Sutlej, was on the beach for sightseeing along with his wife. Around 4.10 p.m., he noticed a person struggling in water and shouting for help. A crowd had gathered but could not help him. However, Lt. Dalal showed good presence of mind and acted fast to save the man, putting his own life at risk in the process.
Though the officer reached the victim at once, it took around 25 minutes for him to bring the man ashore as the undertow was strong. Lt. Dalal also had to deal with the panicked victim who was apparently pulling him down, putting both their lives in danger.
The officer calmed the person and made him hold on to his shoulders, after which he swam to the beach. Lt. Dalal mustered all his strength and managed to reach the shore.
Since the victim was not breathing after being brought ashore, Lt. Dalal administered Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), whereupon he was revived, said a Navy press release. The victim was later taken to a nearby hospital. He was discharged later.