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I.R.
Pradeep Kumar

04/06/21 09:20 AM IST

Operation Sagar Aaraksha II

In news

Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in coordination with Sri Lankan authorities, has been tirelessly engaged in fighting a major fire onboard the Chemical laden container vessel MV X-Press Pearl anchored off Colombo since 25 May 2021.

Issue
  • The vessel when caught with fire was carrying 1486 containers containing chemical cargo classified as International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG). Among other chemicals, the IMDG cargo consisted of highly inflammable Nitric Acid, Methanol, Methyl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide and Polystyrene beads. 
  • The fire which initially started onboard on 20 May 2021 while at anchorage, was brought under control by the efforts of Sri Lankan authorities and salvage team.
  • The sinking of the vessel with chemicals and sizable quantity of fuel has led to environmental concerns. 
India's support
  • Indian Coast Guard ships, including the specialised pollution response vessel Samudra Prahari and offshore patrol vessel Vajra are maintaining in vicinity of the derelict in PR configuration along with Sri Lankan ships and standby to respond to the developing situation. Presently, no oil spill has been reported by the authorities.
  • The coordinated joint operation between India and Sri Lanka undertaken to respond to potential environmental danger has been christened as Sagar Aaraksha-II.
  • Indian Coast Guard is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Sri Lankan Navy, Coast Guard, MEPA and other authorities to address any impending environmental damage due to the sinking of the vessel close to the coast.
Source: PIB

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