GANDHIDHAM: A loaded coal vessel, MV KMAX EMPORER, sustains heavy damage and takes water 14 nautical miles from OTB; Port, Coast Guard and tug resources deployed for assistance arrying a draft of approximately 14.4 metres, collided with another vessel, MV TRUE MARINER, while approaching the Outer Tuna Buoy (OTB) Anchorage of Deendayal Port, Kandla.
According to information received by Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), the collision occurred approximately 14 nautical miles from the OTB. Following the incident, MV KMAX EMPORER sustained heavy damage and began taking water.
DPA Kandla responded immediately to the situation, dispatching a port tug from Tuna along with the Harbour Master and a Pilot to provide assistance to the affected vessel and support the ongoing emergency response.
21 Crew Members Safely Evacuated
Of the 24 crew members aboard MV KMAX EMPORER, 21 have been safely evacuated following the incident.
The remaining three crew members — the Captain and two Chief Engineers — remain onboard while awaiting further directions from the vessel’s owners.
As part of the precautionary response and to strengthen emergency preparedness in the vicinity, two additional port tugs and two Indian Coast Guard vessels are standing by near the incident area.
Port Operations Continue Normally
DPA Kandla has stated that other port operations are continuing as usual, with the incident response being managed alongside normal port activities.
The immediate priority remains the safety of the remaining crew, assistance to the damaged vessel and management of the situation at sea.
The deployment of port tugs, senior port officials, a Pilot and Coast Guard assets reflects the coordinated response being undertaken to deal with the maritime emergency.
Key Developments
MV KMAX EMPORER, a loaded coal vessel with approximately 14.4 m draft, collided with MV TRUE MARINER.
Collision occurred about 14 nautical miles from OTB Anchorage, Kandla.
KMAX EMPORER sustained heavy damage and is taking water.
21 of the 24 crew members have been safely evacuated.
Captain and two Chief Engineers remain onboard, awaiting owners’ directions.
One port tug, Harbour Master and Pilot were immediately deployed for assistance.
Two port tugs and two Coast Guard vessels are on standby in the vicinity.
Other port operations at DPA Kandla continue as normal.
