by On February 19, 2023, a Bangladeshi cargo vessel named MV Madhabdi collided with another vessel in the Hooghly River, causing it to sink. The incident occurred around 4:30 am near the Kolkata Port Trust’s Sandheads anchorage, which is a busy waterway used for transporting cargo to and from the port.
According to reports, the MV Madhabdi was on its way to Kolkata from Chittagong with a cargo of cement when it collided with another vessel. The impact of the collision was severe, and the cargo vessel started taking on water rapidly. Despite the efforts of the crew to save the vessel, it sank within a few hours.
Thankfully, all 11 crew members on board the MV Madhabdi were rescued by nearby vessels and taken to safety. The Kolkata Port Trust immediately launched a search and rescue operation after the incident was reported, and other vessels in the area also assisted in the rescue efforts.
The cause of the collision is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that it may have been due to miscommunication or human error. The Indian Coast Guard has launched an inquiry into the incident, and the Bangladeshi government has also sent a team to investigate the matter.
The sinking of the MV Madhabdi has caused concern about the safety of shipping in the Hooghly River, which is a crucial waterway for trade and commerce in the region. The incident has also highlighted the need for improved safety measures and better communication among vessels in the area to prevent such accidents in the future.
The authorities have assured that they are taking steps to ensure the safety of vessels in the Hooghly River, and have urged all vessels to adhere to safety guidelines and protocols while navigating the waterway. The Kolkata Port Trust has also promised to provide assistance to the affected crew members and their families.
In conclusion, the collision and sinking of the MV Madhabdi in the Hooghly River is a reminder of the importance of safety measures and communication in the shipping industry. It is a tragic incident that could have been avoided, and it is crucial that lessons are learned from it to prevent similar accidents in the future.
