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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Udhayanidhi accuses BJP of not releasing funds for TN
Gobichettipalayam (PTI): Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Saturday charged the BJP government at the Centre with not releasing funds to the state and accused it of "snatching" TN's rights.
Addressing a poll rally at Gobichettipalayam in the western Erode district, the DMK youth wing chief claimed the Centre has not released funds to the tune of Rs 3,000 crore for education.
"They (union government) have snatched all our rights," he charged.
With regard to the Centre's proposal for delimitation, he said chief minister M K Stalin was the first person in the country to raise the voice against the union government's move. He claimed that it was a "huge victory" for the INDIA alliance, as the bill was defeated for lack of majority after the opposition voted against it in the Lok Sabha.
Listing out various welfare measures implemented by the DMK government, he said the existing "Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai" (monthly financial assistance for women) will be doubled to Rs 2,000 if DMK was voted to power again.
The deputy chief minister charged that the BJP and AIADMK have tried to stall it by moving the court. "At present more than 1.3 crore women have benefited from the scheme", he said.
"Similarly, the breakfast scheme for the government school students will be extended till Class VIII", he said adding "more than 35 lakh college students across the state will be getting free laptops once the DMK government is formed".
Udhayanidhi also pointed out at the "Illatharasi" poll promise, providing Rs 8,000 worth of coupons to non-income tax paying women where they could buy or replace any household appliances of their choice.
Elections to 234 Assembly seats in Tamil Nadu will be held on April 23 and the results declared on May 4 following counting of polled votes.
