SURAT – A heavy barge, laden with imported coal, struck a pillar of the ONGC Bridge from the Dumas seaside early this morning, marking the second such incident in just five months.
The Hazira region in Surat is a hub for significant coal imports, primarily from countries like Indonesia. Massive ships, unable to dock directly at the jetties, remain anchored in the sea, relying on barges to ferry the coal to shore.
In previous incidents, strong winds and water currents have been known to push these coal-laden barges off course, frequently causing them to end up near the ONGC Bridge pillars. If the barges are moving with excessive speed, they risk colliding with the bridge, as was the case today.
It's noted that several Hazira-based companies tether their barges close to the jetty, raising questions about safety measures and practices.
Authorities are set to investigate potential damage to the bridge's pillar post-collision. Depending on their findings, legal action may be taken against the barge owner or the respective coal company.
