Mumbai: At about 7:30 PM on 08 June 2016, a merchant ship MV Infinity I, approximately 20 NM off Goa coast, reported water ingress and continuous listing (nautical term for tilting) to starboard (right side of the ship). The vessel had reported that the list is increasing despite ship's de-watering efforts.

Since such emergencies can lead to the sinking of the ship, Indian Naval Ship Trikand from Western Naval Command immediately responded to the call. Despite heavy seas the ship responded immediately (at about 9:00 PM on 08 June 16) by sending team of 4 personnel including 2 officers and high speed de-watering pumps. Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre was also informed. Coast Guard Ships Amal and Shoor and a tug from Goa were also dispatched for assistance and another naval ship INS Kondul was placed on standby. Helicopters were also prepared for immediate evacuations should the situation deteriorate.

MV Infinity I was anchored off Goa coast last night and provided with additional pumps by INS Trikand and CG Ships.

By early morning about (approximately 3:00 AM today) MV Infinity I could contain the flooding with the help of pumps provided by the assisting ships. Although, still listing precariously, the ship weighed anchor by 4:00 AM this morning and is slowly (4-5 Knots of speed) proceeding to Karwar harbour. She is being escorted by INS Trikand and two CG Ships. At current speed, she is expected to reach Karwar Port late this evening.

The 83 m long vessel with 14 Indian crew (including Master) was transiting from Kandla port in Gujarat and proceeding to Karwar, Karnataka when it developed the crack in the hull and started taking in water. She was carrying approximately 1750 tonnes of Asphalt.

The development is being closely monitored by Naval and CG authorities.@10) Last night, MV Infinity I had reported water ingress in the ship which could not be contained by its crew. With assistance from INS Trikand, the ship is making its way slowly to Karwar. ( pic by Ravindra Zende )

12 & 13) INS Trikand crew embarking the boat with de flooding equipments in the night for transfer to MV Infinity I.

14) Naval crew with the MV Infinity crew lowering submersible pumps. Additional de-watering pumps were essential to prevent the ship from listing further or sinking eventually.