New Delhi, July 17, 2024 — In a tragic maritime incident, an oil tanker carrying a crew of 16, including 13 Indians, capsized off the coast of Oman on Monday. The Maritime Security Centre (MSC) of Oman confirmed the incident, stating that the crew members are currently missing. The remaining three crew members were identified as Sri Lankans.
The oil tanker, named Prestige Falcon, capsized 25 nautical miles southeast of Ras Madrakah, near the port town of Duqm. The MSC made the announcement in a post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
The port of Duqm, situated on Oman’s southwest coast, is a strategic location close to the sultanate’s significant oil and gas mining projects. It also houses a major oil refinery, which is part of Duqm’s extensive industrial zone, the largest economic project in Oman.
The Prestige Falcon was en route to the Yemeni port city of Aden when the accident occurred. According to the shipping website marinetraffic.com, the vessel is a 117-meter-long oil products tanker built in 2007.
Rescue operations are currently underway as authorities search for the missing crew. The incident has raised concerns about maritime safety and the risks faced by crew members on such voyages.
The MSC’s post stated, “The crew of the ship are still missing,” indicating the ongoing efforts to locate and rescue the 16 individuals on board. The cause of the capsize remains unknown, and an investigation is expected to follow once the search and rescue operations are concluded.
The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities to assist in the search and rescue efforts. Families of the missing crew members have been notified and are anxiously awaiting updates.
This incident highlights the perilous nature of maritime operations in the region, especially near critical industrial zones. The maritime community is calling for enhanced safety measures and stringent regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the search continues, the maritime industry and international community express their solidarity with the families of the missing crew members, hoping for their safe return.
For more updates on this developing story and other news, visit Sarhind Times.
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