Merchant Navy Officer from Agra Dies After Falling into Sea Near Batam Island, Indonesia
Agra/Batam | July 30, 2025
A 33-year-old merchant navy officer from Agra tragically lost his life after falling into the sea while attempting to board a docked vessel near Batam Island, Indonesia. The incident occurred on July 24 and was confirmed by officials from Navsug Marine Services, the Chennai-based company he was working with.
The officer, Manish Chandra Yadav, was serving as Chief Officer on a ship undergoing repairs near Batam. According to company officials, Yadav fell into the sea while boarding the vessel from a jetty. Despite the efforts of his crewmates, who managed to pull him out of the water shortly after, he had already succumbed to his injuries.
“It is unfortunate that the incident happened. We are sending the body back to Manish’s native place from Indonesia,” said an official from Navsug Marine Services, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has been notified, and efforts are underway to repatriate Yadav’s mortal remains. The body is expected to arrive in India within the next few days.
Manish’s family, devastated by the news, was informed later on the same day. His younger brother, Avneesh Chandra Yadav, who works for a private company in Noida, said the family is coordinating closely with authorities and the shipping company to bring his brother home. “We are in touch with the ministry and the company. Arrangements are being made, and we hope to receive his body soon,” he said.
Avneesh added that the accident occurred while Manish was stepping onto the ship. “He slipped as soon as he stepped onto the vessel. His companions tried to rescue him, but he could not be saved.”
Manish had been in Indonesia for the past two months while the ship underwent extensive repairs. He had planned to travel to Dubai the following day, July 25, indicating that his time on the vessel was nearing an end.
The officer’s untimely death has left a deep void in his family. A resident of Awas Vikas Colony in Agra, Manish had married Reena in November 2019. The couple has two young children — Gargi, aged four, and Garv, two.
“His children were his world,” said a family friend. “He used to video call them every day from the ship. It’s heartbreaking to know that he won’t be returning home.”
Manish’s career in the merchant navy began in 2013. After two years at sea, he took a break from maritime work and joined a multinational corporation. However, driven by his passion for sailing and the sea, he returned to the merchant navy two years ago and resumed his duties.
His family remembers him as responsible, hardworking, and deeply committed to his profession. “Even when he left the merchant navy for a while, he missed it every day,” Avneesh said. “He always believed the sea was where he belonged.”
The circumstances surrounding the fall are still unclear, though initial reports suggest a slip occurred during the boarding process. The company has not released further details about whether weather conditions or ship design may have contributed to the accident. There is also no confirmation yet on whether a formal investigation will be carried out.
Yadav’s death has sent shockwaves through Agra’s close-knit maritime community. Friends and neighbors have gathered at his family home to offer condolences and support. Local authorities have promised all possible assistance to the bereaved family.
Navsug Marine Services has not issued a formal statement, but officials have assured the family of full cooperation.
As the family awaits the return of Manish’s body, they are preparing for the final rites, expected to be held in Agra. “We want to give him the farewell he deserves,” said Avneesh. “He went to sea to build a better future for his children. He gave everything for his family.”
Manish Yadav’s death is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by maritime workers, even when ships are docked. His story, though cut short, is one of resilience, responsibility, and quiet dedication — and one that will not be forgotten by those who knew and loved him.
Author: shipping inbox
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