Bangladeshi cargo ship sinks in Ganges, Bengal sends help to rescue crew and salvage vessel

A Bangladeshi cargo ship, MV Bachiruddin Kazi, sank in the Ganges River near Bansberia while returning to Bangladesh from India. The ship was transporting ash from the Bandel Thermal Power Station’s ash yard. The vessel began sinking after a loud noise was heard from below, causing it to tilt and submerge over half of the ship, with only the captain’s cabin remaining above the water.

The crew immediately contacted local authorities, and rescue teams were dispatched to the site. All crew members were safely evacuated, and no injuries or casualties were reported. Local authorities initiated a rescue operation to ensure the crew's safety and prevent further sinking of the vessel.

A salvage operation was launched by West Bengal authorities to address the sinking. Water is being pumped out of the ship to help it rise back to the surface. Initial assessments suggest that the ship’s instability was caused by the heavy ash load, which affected its balance. To assist in stabilizing the ship, workers from Sandeshkhali have been sent to offload the ash, reducing the vessel’s weight.

Once the ash is offloaded and the ship is stabilized, necessary repairs will be carried out. The vessel will be returned to Bangladesh after the repairs are completed. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely to prevent any environmental damage and ensure the safe return of the ship.