Dredger Shanti Sagar III Overturns Near Hazira: No Casualties Reported
In a dramatic maritime incident on Sunday, the dredger Shanti Sagar III, while being towed by Tug Dolphin 23, overturned near the coastal town of Hazira in Gujarat. Despite the severity of the accident, unconfirmed sources have confirmed that no casualties were recorded.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, sent ripples across the local maritime community. The Shanti Sagar III, a large dredger used for port operations and maintaining navigational channels, was in the process of being towed when it encountered difficulties that led to the vessel capsizing. Fortunately, the crew on board managed to escape unharmed, and quick actions by the rescue team ensured that there was no loss of life.
Rescue Operation
Soon after the dredger overturned, a full-scale rescue and salvage operation was launched. Authorities mobilized resources from nearby ports and coastal stations to ensure that the situation was contained as swiftly as possible. Marine Engineers were deployed to assess the extent of the damage and to determine the best approach to salvage the vessel.
The rescue mission was led by the maritime safety team stationed at Hazira and local shipping authorities. The dredger, although overturned, remained afloat, giving the rescue teams a chance to work rapidly.
Within hours, efforts to refloat the vessel began. Specialized equipment, flotation devices, were brought in to assist with the operation. A coordinated strategy involving multiple tugboats, led by Tug Dolphin 23, was executed, and after several hours of painstaking work, Shanti Sagar III was successfully refloated.
Causes of the Incident
Though the exact cause of the accident remains under investigation, preliminary reports suggest that adverse weather conditions and possible mechanical failure might have played a role in the dredger’s capsize. Hazira’s coastal waters can be challenging to navigate, especially during the monsoon season, when unexpected swells and strong currents can complicate maritime operations.
According to one maritime expert involved in the operation, towing large vessels like Shanti Sagar III requires precision and coordination. “It’s a delicate operation, particularly when dealing with a vessel of this size. The balance of the vessel during towing, combined with external factors like tides and weather, can sometimes create conditions that lead to such accidents,” said the expert.
Further technical inspections will be conducted on Shanti Sagar III to assess any structural damage caused during the incident. Investigators from the Indian Maritime Safety Authority are also expected to examine whether all safety protocols were followed and if any lapses could have contributed to the mishap.
Reactions and Response
The local port authorities and government officials lauded the swift response of the rescue teams and praised their efficient handling of the situation. “We are relieved that there has been no loss of life, and we commend the efforts of all those involved in the operation. Their quick actions have ensured that the vessel has been safely recovered with minimal impact on maritime operations in the region,” said a spokesperson for the Hazira Port Authority.
While the incident briefly disrupted shipping lanes near Hazira, normal operations resumed once the dredger was refloated. Authorities assured that the affected waterway would be thoroughly inspected to ensure there was no lingering hazard to other vessels passing through the region.
Conclusion
The overturning of Shanti Sagar III highlights the risks involved in maritime operations, particularly in unpredictable conditions. However, the efficient and coordinated response by the rescue teams prevented what could have been a more severe disaster. With the dredger now safely refloated and investigations underway, efforts will focus on understanding the cause of the accident and ensuring that such incidents are avoided in the future.
The maritime community can now breathe a sigh of relief as no lives were lost, and Shanti Sagar III has been brought back safely, ready to undergo repairs before resuming its vital role in maintaining navigational channels in the region.
