Massive container ship part washes ashore in Bhatkal, coast guard launches investigation
Bhatkal: A large part of a container ship drifted ashore at Jali beach in Bhatkal taluk during the early hours of Tuesday. The container, estimated to be around 70 metres in length, is believed to be part of a vessel belonging to the Cochin Shipyard, according to preliminary findings.
Officials from the Indian Coast Guard stated that initial investigations suggest the detached part is linked to Cochin Shipyard. Strong winds and rough sea conditions are suspected to have caused the vessel’s anchor to break loose, leading to the structure drifting ashore. “Wind pressure and turbulent sea activity might be the cause, but further investigation is necessary to confirm the exact reason,” said a senior Coast Guard officer.
There is currently no clarity on whether the container holds any cargo. Authorities have assured that necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the coastal area and prevent any environmental impact. A team from Cochin Shipyard is expected to arrive shortly to inspect and remove the structure, sources said.
The incident has drawn large crowds to Jali Koodi beach, with hundreds of locals gathering to witness the rare sight. Coast Guard personnel and local police have visited the site and carried out inspections.
Local fishermen described the event as unusual. “Such incidents are rare, though occasionally, during high winds at sea, parts of vessels can get dislodged. However, it’s surprising to see such a massive container wash ashore,” one fisherman said.
Security arrangements have been made at the site, and movement around the container has been restricted. Authorities are on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents. Further details regarding the origin of the container and the exact cause of the incident will be known after a full investigation.
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Experience comes when you play bigger teams in bilateral series: Rashid Khan
Chennai (PTI): Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan called for more bilateral series against stronger cricketing nations after his team signed off from the T20 World Cup on a high, defeating Canada in their final group match here on Thursday.
Afghanistan played some exhilarating cricket, going down to South Africa in a gripping second Super Over after the scores were tied, a humdinger that provided one of the early thrills of the World Cup.
However, the spin-bowling stalwart said Afghanistan could make significant strides if they get regular opportunities to compete against stronger cricketing nations.
"Couple of areas to improve, with the batting, the middle order got a bit stuck against the big teams, and then with the bowling the death overs. That comes when you play the bigger teams in bilateral series," said Rashid after his team defeat Canada by 82 runs, with him returning excellent figures of 2 for 19.
The stalwart said the side had arrived well prepared for the tournament and produced some breathtaking cricket, but admitted the narrow defeat to South Africa proved costly and remained a painful setback.
"We were well-prepared (for the tournament), we played some unbelievable cricket. The game against South Africa, that really hurt everyone. We had to win one of those (first two) games and see how the tournament unfolded. We'll take some positive things from this World Cup and look forward," he said.
With head coach Jonathan Trott set to part ways with the team, Rashid described the departure as an "emotional" moment for the side.
"I think we had some wonderful times with him. Where we are now, he played a main role. It's emotional to see him leave us, but that's how life is. We wish him all the best and somewhere down the line we see him again."
Ibrahim Zadran, who was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 95 off 56 balls, said it was satisfying to finally register a substantial score after two below-par outings.
"I enjoyed it, didn't play better cricket in first two innings, which I expect. Wanted to back my skills, really enjoyed it. Pressure was there, it's there all the time. I want to put myself in pressure situations and enjoy it," said Zadran.
"Wanted to play positive cricket, rotate strike and punish bad ball, create partnerships and this is what I have done."
