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Days after a dredger washed ashore on the Kollam coast, efforts have begun to tow it to the deep sea as the vessel has become a safety concern for the coastal people in the region.
The dredger, Hansita, owned by Mumbai-based Megha Dredging Private Limited, had got stuck at Mundakkal beach in Kollam after it lost moorings. Before breaking free, it was anchored three nautical miles off Kollam coast since November, 2013.
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Kollam port officer Abraham Joseph said the dredging firm had been asked to shift the vessel away from the coast within 24 hours.
“The vessel that washed ashore has become a matter of concern for the coastal people. The fishermen can’t sail their country crafts. Repair work on the dredger has already begun. We hope to tow the vessel to the sea tomorrow.’’
In early 2013, the engine of the vessel, which developed a technical snag while sailing towards Karwar, had undergone repairs at the Kollam port. But, the company failed to clear the dues of Rs 40 lakh, following which the port authorities withheld the vessel at the port. Later, the port department moved the dredger three miles away from the coast. In June year, the coastal police rescued its crew after the vessel developed cracks.
The port officer said the dispute over the repair charges has been pending in the court.
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