Pics: Allwyn Mascarenhas
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 27: The dredger Bhagwati Prem, which had remained off the Guddekopla coast in Suratkal for the past six years and had partly submerged, is now being dismantled. More than half of the dismantling work has already been completed, and the remaining work is currently in progress, bringing relief to local fishermen and residents who had long awaited its removal.
The dredger, owned by a company contracted by NMPT for dredging operations, was anchored at the location on October 29, 2019, following technical issues. Initial attempts to tow it away were unsuccessful, leading to the decision to dismantle it on-site.
The dismantling process, however, was delayed due to departmental permissions and unfavourable weather conditions. Earlier, partial dismantling was carried out using boats, and last year the work restarted with the help of a barge-mounted crane. Two major sections have already been removed, and work is ongoing on the remaining portion.
Local legislators intervened to expedite the process, but cyclonic conditions and technical challenges caused intermittent delays. Currently, dismantling operations are actively underway, and sources confirm that over half the job has been completed.
A barge-mounted crane is already at the site, and a team of cutters and workers from Mumbai is engaged in the operation. A shed has also been constructed locally to accommodate the workers, along with arrangements such as water storage.
While fishermen had faced inconvenience due to the presence of the wreck for years, the ongoing dismantling work has renewed optimism. The remains of Bhagwati Prem, long visible from the shore, are gradually being cleared as the dismantling moves steadily toward completion.