Surat - Five large barges carrying thousands of tonnes of coal got stuck near the ONGC Bridge at Hazira Jetty, raising questions about the safety of the structure. The barges, which had left from Hazira Jetty, were pulled towards the bridge due to strong wind waves, water velocity, and broken ropes.

Motorists passing the ONGC Bridge were curious to see the stranded coal-laden barges. Authorities are making efforts to safely move the barges back to the jetty.

Various companies' barges are tied at Hazira Jetty, with private company barges operating nearby. Occasionally, excessive wind and water velocity can cause the barges' ropes to break, resulting in them being pulled into the river and getting stuck near the ONGC Bridge pillars. If the barges' speed is too fast, they can collide with the bridge, causing potential damage.

The coal loaded onto the barges originated from Indonesia and was being unloaded at Magdalla Port. The strong winds forced the five boats under the ONGC Bridge, where they collided with each other. It is currently being investigated whether the barges hit the bridge's pillar or not.

Local residents have expressed concerns that if the barges collide with the bridge, it may compromise the structure.