In what could increase the government’s worry, the MPT has informed the High Court of Judicature at Bombay that grounded vessel Nu Shi Nalini poses an imminent danger owing to its ‘bottom breaking and 2,000 tonnes of naphtha on board, the vessel together with diesel and heavy oil leaking into the sea and endangering marine life.’ “MT Nu Shi Nalini had dragged anchor on October 24, 2019 in view of inclement weather and now she is grounded within the port limits. There is an imminent danger of vessel’s bottom breaking and also 2,000 tonnes of naphtha on board the diesel and heavy oil leaking into the sea and endangering marine life,” said counsel Amrut Vernekar, appearing for MPT’s Board of Trustees. The Centre has already directed MPT to take immediate steps to salvage the vessel. Counsel Vishal Sheth, appearing for the company submitted to the bench of Justice K R Shriram that they are cooperating with the port authorities and have no objection if the vessel is salvaged. In the hearing to the petition challenging the Customs Department’s refusal to allow removal of the cargo from the ship while at MPT, Sheth stated that they have filed a bond with the MPT indemnifying the port against any claim or damages arising out of any accident involving or connected to the vessel and also to reimburse all expenses/remuneration for salvage. To this, Vernekar said that it will take appropriate steps to recover their expenses and port dues, and that MPT is in talks with various salvors with appointment to be made soon. The court has adjourned the matter for directions on December 16.
on the contrary, MPT informs High court that vessel poses imminent danger
