A loaded coal vessel sustained heavy damage following a collision with another vessel while approaching the Outer Tuna Buoy (OTB) anchorage of Deendayal Port on Friday.
According to preliminary information received from the OTB anchorage, MV Kmax Emperor, a loaded coal vessel with a draft of approximately 14.4 metres, collided with MV True Mariner about 14 nautical miles from the OTB while approaching the anchorage.
The collision caused significant damage to the side shell of MV Kmax Emperor, resulting in flooding of the vessel’s engine room.
Following the incident, one tug from Tuna, along with the Harbour Master and a pilot, was immediately dispatched to provide assistance and assess the situation.
In a swift rescue response, 21 of the 24 crew members aboard MV Kmax Emperor were safely evacuated by the lighterage barge Rishi XXX, which was operating in the vicinity and was directed to proceed to the site and extend all possible assistance.
The remaining three crew members, including the vessel’s Captain, are still onboard and are awaiting further directives from the vessel owners.
As a precautionary measure, two port tugs and two Coast Guard vessels are currently standing by in the vicinity to provide assistance if required.
Meanwhile, other port operations at Deendayal Port are continuing as usual.
Further details regarding the cause of the collision, the extent of damage and the condition of the vessel are awaited. The incident is expected to be assessed by the concerned maritime and port authorities.