The Panama-flagged cargo vessel MV Princess Miral, carrying 24 crew members and a consignment of steel coils, recently sank off the coast of Odisha, India. The incident occurred on June 13, 2024, approximately 13 nautical miles off Gopalpur, after the ship experienced severe engine room flooding and subsequently vanished from maritime tracking systems. All 24 individuals on board were successfully rescued by the Indian Coast Guard following a distress alert.

The MV Princess Miral, operated by Princess Miral Shipping, a Singapore-based company, was last located around 11:30 AM on June 13 before its signal disappeared. Authorities were alerted to the vessel's plight after it reported critical flooding in its engine room, a development that rapidly compromised the ship’s stability. Despite efforts to manage the ingress of water, the situation deteriorated, leading to the eventual foundering of the 13-year-old bulk carrier.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Indian Coast Guard initiated a rapid response operation. The ICGS Savitribai Phule, a Coast Guard ship, was diverted to the site, complemented by the deployment of an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) for aerial support and rescue. The coordinated efforts ensured the safety of all personnel aboard the distressed vessel.

Key details of the incident include:

  • Vessel Name: MV Princess Miral
  • Flag: Panama
  • Crew Onboard: 24
  • Cargo: Steel coils
  • Incident Date: June 13, 2024
  • Location: Approximately 13 nautical miles off Gopalpur, Odisha
  • Cause: Severe engine room flooding leading to loss of stability
  • Rescue Agency: Indian Coast Guard (ICGS Savitribai Phule, ALH)

All rescued crew members were safely transferred to Gopalpur port, where they received necessary assistance. The swift action of the Indian Coast Guard prevented any loss of life in the maritime casualty.

Maritime authorities, including the Directorate General of Shipping, are expected to launch a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The inquiry will aim to ascertain the precise cause of the engine room flooding, assess the vessel's seaworthiness, and determine any contributing factors to the sinking. Additionally, environmental monitoring will be conducted in the vicinity of the incident to detect and mitigate any potential marine pollution from the sunken vessel. The incident highlights the critical role of prompt distress response in ensuring safety at sea.