Bangladeshi cargo vessel sinks near Bay of Bengal, 12 sailors rescued

January 22, 2026

Kolkata: A Bangladeshi cargo vessel, identified as MV Tamjid and Nasir, sank in the Muriganga River in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district on the night of January 21, officials said on Thursday. All 12 sailors on board were rescued safely, and no casualties were reported.

Vessel sinks near Kachuberia

According to police, the incident occurred on Wednesday night in the middle of the Muriganga River near Kachuberia, between Ghoramara Island and Kachuberia, while the vessel was travelling from Kolkata port to Bangladesh carrying cargo. Preliminary findings suggest that the ship suffered a mechanical malfunction, which caused it to lose control amid strong river currents.

Quick rescue operation saves all crew members

Superintendent of Police, Sundarbans Police District, Koteswara Rao, said the vessel’s engine suddenly failed, leading to the loss of manoeuvrability. “A crack developed in the lower portion of the ship, following which water started leaking in. The sailors immediately sought help,” he said. Responding swiftly, the Sagar police reached the spot and rescued all 12 Bangladeshi nationals on board.

Crew sheltered, probe into cargo and pollution

The rescued sailors were provided first aid and are currently staying at a multi-purpose shelter under Gangasagar Police Station, where arrangements for food and drinking water have been made. Officials said efforts are underway to contact Bangladeshi authorities, and arrangements will be made to send the crew back to Bangladesh soon.

Meanwhile, the administration has launched an investigation into the nature of the cargo the vessel was carrying and is monitoring the river to assess any oil or hazardous chemical spillage resulting from the sinking.