Salvage operations on for MV SSL Kolkata: Shipping Ministry

Salvage operations of container vessel MV SSL Kolkata, that had caught fire last month, are underway in adverse weather conditions, the government said today.

On June 18, the Shipping Ministry had said salvage operations were held up due to adverse weather and sea conditions.

The vessel was grounded at about 8 nautical miles off the ecologically sensitive Sundarbans after its cargo area had caught fire following an explosion.

All 22 crew members were rescued by the Indian Coast Guard.

The Directorate General of Shipping and its allied office, Mercantile Marine Department, Kolkata, Government of West Bengal, the Indian Coast Guard and various authorities have been constantly monitoring the developments as the salvage efforts continue, the statement said.

"There is no apparent damage caused to the environment as of now except a minor oil leakage from vessel which is being attended to with means of oil spill combating gear. Investigation by the Directorate is under progress," it added.