Discover the Temiro: Ratings & Maritime News

A dire situation is unfolding for the 19 crew members aboard the 'Prem Mala', a tanker currently anchored off Mumbai, as a prolonged lockdown has stalled the auction process of the vessel. Concerns are rising as essential supplies, including food and water, are expected to be depleted within the next two days. The tanker has been in custody for the past three months due to the owner's failure to settle outstanding debts with UTI Capital Private Ltd. The Bombay High Court has mandated that the agency responsible for the ship's arrest ensure the provision of necessities through Mercator Limited. Captain Iftikhar Modak expressed urgent concern last week, reaching out to multiple stakeholders, including the Sheriff of Mumbai, the Directorate General of Shipping, the shipping company, and Axis Trustee Services Ltd. for assistance with supplies. However, clarity on the provision of these essentials remains elusive. The series of events began on January 31, 2020, when the Bombay High Court approved a request from Axis Trustee Services Limited (ATSL), affiliated with Axis Bank, to issue an arrest warrant for the tanker. The debts owed by the ship's owner to UTI, facilitated through ATSL, amount to ₹196 crore. On March 3, the court ordered the Sheriff of Mumbai to initiate an auction sale, establishing a bidding deadline of March 24, with the intention to declare a purchaser two days later. However, these plans were interrupted by the announcement of the lockdown. In April, UTI voluntarily funded essential supplies for the crew, despite having no legal obligation to do so. On April 26, they returned to court, petitioning either for the appointment of a party to fund further essentials or to facilitate the ship's sale while ensuring that whoever covers the costs gets paid from the proceeds. The court, however, deemed the matter non-urgent and declined to issue any orders. The crew members are facing a morale crisis, with salaries unpaid since January and insurance coverage expired. Captain Modak has reported that his duty period was supposed to last two months, while another crew member’s contract expired last week. Unfortunately, the shipowner has been unable to arrange for their departure due to existing financial obligations. If the situation remains unaddressed, the crew may be forced to abandon ship, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

In a significant development within the maritime industry, a vessel has been chartered to the Indian Oil Company for a duration of one year. The agreement stipulates a daily rate of $13,250, reflecting ongoing demand and investment in maritime logistics. This strategic charter aligns with Indian Oil's operational needs, ensuring efficient transport capabilities for the upcoming year.