Mumbai: Ship stranded off Madh Island

A merchant navy ship, Pratibha Tapi, stuck in the sea as its anchor clinged to something 2-3 kms deep in the water off Madh Island on Sunday. The ship has four to five crew members on board.The vessel belongs to Pratibha Shipping Company Limited.

Sources said, the ship got drifted after the anchor lost grip. The disaster management cell of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued orders to the concerned authorities to ensure that there is no oil spill or any accidents due to high tide and heavy rains.

The ship is currently anchored off the coast of Bhati village in Madh island. When the vessel started drifting towards the village around 6am, it raised concern among the locals.

After the coast guard and navy officers were alerted, the ship was anchored within a few hours.
Municipal commissioner Sitaram Kunte has ordered the Coast Guard, Mumbai Port Trust and the shipping corporation to jointly ensure that the stranded ship does not pose any danger at the shore.
Due to heavy tide, the ship may have hit the shore or struck Bandra Worli Sea Link if precautions are not taken.

“The anchor lost grip on the seabed and the tanker moved towards the coast. We are in touch with the crew on board. The tanker belongs to Pratibha Shipping Company Limited and they will be sending a vessel to rescue the crew members,” said Abdul Rauf Shaikh, senior PI of Malwani police station.