In a thrilling operation, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Monday morning averted marine oil spill threat by rescuing a vessel off Gujarat coast.
In a joint operation by ICG and other resource agencies ran aground the ill-fated apprehended vessel MV Hennry that was caught with smuggled narcotics at the high seas.
As informed by the authorities, the vessel on completion of judicial trials was finally auctioned to M/S Khodiyar Trading, Porbandar for next course of action.
The vessel was shifted temporarily to the inner anchorage to make way for an inbound vessel at Porbandar. She reportedly drifted after her anchor cable parted and ran aground at about 400 meters West South West of the old light house outside Porbandar harbor.
Though, this vessel did not pose any threat to the navigational safety but the potent threat of oil pollution continued to loom over the coast of Gujarat as it houses about 230 Kl High Speed Diesel onboard.
Immediately on receipt of information, the Coast Guard swung into action and mobilised their expertise in response to the situation.
A pre-assessment helicopter sortie was conducted this morning and owing to the analysis, the defueling arrangements was undertaken by winching down Coast Guard personnel and equipment. Though there was no immediate threat but in order to ensure safety of the coast and marine ecosystem, the defueling of the diesel from ship to shore was commenced.
The preparedness to respond to any future developing scenario was also activated in conjunction with port authorities.
The prompt actions averted the marine pollution threat in the area as there are no signs of spillage in the immediate vicinity.
The Indian Coast Guard at Gujarat is also in a process of establishing a Pollution Response Team (NW) based at Vadinar by end July 18, to respond to all such eventualities on the Saurashtra coast as well as both the important Gulfs in the State of Gujarat.