New Delhi [India], September 28 (ANI): On Monday, the Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued a chemical tanker that was carrying 9,000 metric tonnes of palm oil and had 23 crew members on board. The vessel issued a distress signal while off the coast of Paradip, Odisha, and was discovered in a precarious, tilting state, according to the maritime security agency.
In a statement shared on X, the Indian Coast Guard reported that the ICGS Vishwast initiated a “swift & decisive operation” upon receiving the urgent distress call from the tanker MT Seagull 9.
The Coast Guard emphasized the importance of their actions, stating, “Averting a major disaster at sea! Following a critical distress call from MT Seagull 9 off #Paradip, #ICGS Vishwast launched a swift & decisive operation to rescue the unstable chemical tanker carrying 9,000 MT palm oil & 23 crew members.”
The agency further revealed that its specialized Damage Control Team boarded the vessel amid hazardous conditions and took various steps to stabilize the tilting tanker.
“Braving high-risk conditions, the specialist Damage Control Team boarded the ship, deployed submersible pumps, de-flooded ballast tanks, and sealed damaged sea-pipelines to stabilize the tilting vessel,” they explained.
Additionally, to enhance pollution response measures and ensure ongoing monitoring, an ICG Pollution Control Vessel and an Offshore Patrol Vessel were redirected to the location, according to the Coast Guard.
Furthermore, an ICG Dornier aircraft was sent for aerial surveillance, which confirmed that a minor sheen of palm oil spotted in the water had completely dissipated. “ICG Dornier aircraft confirmed the minor palm-oil sheen has completely dissipated,” the agency stated.
After successfully stabilizing the tanker, it was placed under tow and is currently being guided towards Paradip. “The ship is now safely under tow towards Paradip,” the Coast Guard reported.
In conclusion, the Indian Coast Guard noted that their units continue to monitor the area to ensure maritime safety and protect the marine ecosystem. “ICG units remain on active sentinel watch — ensuring safety & protecting our oceans 24/7,” they added.
