A Bangladeshi cargo vessel sank in the Muriganga River in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district late on January 21, prompting a swift rescue operation that ensured all 12 sailors on board were brought to safety, officials said on Thursday.
The vessel, identified as MV Tamjid and Nasir, was en route from Kolkata Port to Bangladesh when the incident occurred midstream near Kachuberia, between Ghoramara Island and the Kachuberia jetty area. Preliminary assessments indicate that a mechanical malfunction led to the sinking.
According to police and administrative officials, the ship developed an engine failure while navigating strong river currents. The loss of propulsion caused the vessel to drift uncontrollably, after which a crack reportedly appeared in the lower section of the hull. Water began entering the ship, forcing the crew to issue a distress call.
Personnel from Sagar Police Station responded promptly after receiving information about the emergency. All 12 crew members, identified as Bangladeshi nationals, were rescued from the vessel before it went under. No injuries or fatalities were reported.
Superintendent of Police of Sundarbans Police District, Koteswara Rao, confirmed that the rescue operation was completed without complications. He said the ship sank after suffering a mechanical failure and that police teams reached the spot quickly to evacuate everyone on board.
Following the rescue, the sailors were given first aid and shifted to a multi-purpose shelter under Gangasagar Police Station jurisdiction. Officials said arrangements have been made for their food, drinking water and temporary accommodation.
Administrative sources said efforts are underway to establish communication with Bangladeshi authorities to facilitate the safe return of the crew. Officials indicated that the sailors are expected to be repatriated soon after the necessary coordination is completed.
Authorities have also launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the sinking. While mechanical failure is suspected to be the primary cause, officials said the exact sequence of events will be established after a detailed technical assessment.
An investigation has also been initiated to determine the nature of the cargo being transported by the vessel. The administration is monitoring the area to assess whether any oil, fuel or hazardous substances may have leaked into the Muriganga River following the sinking.
Environmental officials are maintaining vigilance to rule out potential ecological damage in the river, which is part of the fragile Sundarbans delta system. So far, there have been no confirmed reports of pollution or chemical spillage.
The Muriganga River is a key navigational route for cargo vessels operating between Indian ports and Bangladesh. Officials said river traffic in the area is being monitored closely to prevent secondary incidents while the situation is assessed.
The incident underscores the challenges of inland and coastal navigation in the Sundarbans region, where strong currents, shifting channels and mechanical reliability remain critical safety concerns.
