The Indian Coast Guard has rescued a cargo vessel travelling from Malé to Tuticorin after it began taking on water off the coast of Tamil Nadu.

The Comoros-flagged vessel, MV Sittha, requested emergency assistance after sustaining damage near Tiruchendur.

The Indian Coast Guard said its ship Atulya was deployed to the scene, where a specialised boarding team worked with the vessel's master and a salvage company to stabilise the situation. Crews also pumped water out of the vessel to prevent it from sinking.

The vessel was later escorted safely to the port of Tuticorin, where it will undergo repairs.