MV Navata Bhumi Strikes Ferry Ghat After Sudden Turn

The Singapore‑flagged MV Navata Bhumi, carrying a full load of containers, collided with the embankment close to a ferry ghat on the Hugli River on August 12. The ship had just completed a tight bend near Diamond Harbour when its steering gear appeared to jam, causing it to veer off course.

The crew sounded the ship’s horn continuously to warn people on the shore. Fortunately, no ferries were docked at the time, preventing potential casualties. Local onlookers reported a loud impact followed by visible damage to the riverbank.

Authorities highlighted that the Hugli River’s narrow, winding channels require strict adherence to navigation guidelines. Mechanical glitches, especially in single‑screw vessels, are a known risk in such environments, and strong currents can exacerbate the problem.

After the crash, the vessel’s pilot contacted the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port Authority. Tugboats were dispatched to assist, and the ship is being held in place until the next high tide permits safe towing back to Kolkata.