Rajkot: Three workers were found lifeless inside the cargo hold of a vessel during stevedoring operations at Berth 13 of Deendayal Port in Kandla on Wednesday morning, port authority officials said.
Incident Details
According to the preliminary inquiry, the matter came to light around 11:50 am on Wednesday, on the bulk carrier MV Pan Optimum. Cargo handling operations at the berth were being carried out by Rishi Shipping India Pvt Ltd, while DBC & Sons was acting as the vessel agent. The deceased workers were identified as Rajesh, Masuk Ali and Raj Kumar, all workers engaged by Mira Cargo Handling on behalf of Rishi Shipping India Pvt Ltd.
Discovery and Rescue Efforts
Officials said the workers were found unconscious near the entrance manhole area of Cargo Hold 3. The exact factors leading to the deaths are yet to be determined. After the workers were found unconscious, rescue efforts were launched with the help of the vessel crew and the port authorities. The three men were extricated from the hold and taken to hospital in port ambulances around 12:30 pm. However, doctors there declared all three men dead on arrival.
Investigation Underway
Port authorities informed the concerned departments and began an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Officials are examining whether poisonous gases, oxygen deficiency or other hazards in the hold led to the deaths. Further investigation is underway.
About the Author: Nimesh Khakhariya is the Assistant Editor at The Times of India, Rajkot, overseeing coverage across the Saurashtra and Kutch regions. He focuses on special stories, in-depth packages, and day-to-day developments spanning crime, politics, business, civic issues, wildlife, human interest, and soft features. He has a strong interest in wildlife, research-driven stories, and feature writing.
