Rescue under way for stranded passengers in Solomon Islands

SYDNEY: Rescue efforts are under way for 73 passengers stranded aboard the MV Awka in the Solomon Islands after the vessel's engine failed, Xinhua reported.

Aircraft and vessels have been mobilised to deliver essential supplies.

The vessel issued a distress signal at around 7am local time on Friday while travelling from Anuta to Vanikoro in Temotu Province.

The 73 passengers do not include the crew, the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) reported on Saturday.

The MV Awka has been drifting at sea amid rough conditions and high swells, raising concerns about the situation on board, SIBC News reported.

France, Australia and New Zealand have received the distress signal and offered assistance, including food, drinking water and medical supplies, Temotu Province Premier Stanley Tehiahua told SIBC News.