A cargo trawler bound for Kochuberia from Kakdwip in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district sank in the Muriganga River, though no casualties were reported as all five individuals aboard were rescued safely.
Local residents, fishing boat crews, and police personnel successfully rescued five people, including the trawler driver.
The incident occurred on Saturday (October 24) when the Indian cargo trawler, named Sagar Samrat, departed Kakdwip for Kochuberia. Due to low water levels in the middle of the river, the trawler struck a sandbar, lost balance, and capsized.
Seeing the trawler capsize, workers on nearby fishing boats rushed to the scene to assist. Police arrived shortly after receiving information about the accident. A joint rescue operation involving local residents, fishermen, and police brought all five individuals to safety.
Various goods aboard the Sagar Samrat drifted away in the river current. Preliminary estimates by local authorities suggest financial losses amounting to several lakh rupees.
The Muriganga River route serves as a transit waterway for cargo vessels from multiple countries, including Bangladesh. Following the capsize, questions have been raised regarding the safety and security of cargo trawlers and ships operating along the route.
-SA