Mangaluru: The long-stranded dredger Bhagwati Prem, which had been lying partially submerged off the Guddekopla coast in Suratkal for six years, is finally being dismantled, bringing much-needed relief to local fishermen and residents. Officials confirmed that more than half of the dismantling work has already been completed, with the remaining portion currently in progress.
Vessel stranded since 2019
The dredger, owned by a company contracted by the New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT), was anchored near Guddekopla on 29 October 2019 after suffering technical issues during dredging operations. Attempts to tow the vessel away in the months that followed were unsuccessful, resulting in the dredger remaining stuck near the shore.
Over time, the vessel began to tilt and partially submerge, becoming a long-term nuisance for fishermen whose boats had to navigate carefully around the wreck. The visible remains of the dredger also became a concern for residents, who feared environmental impact and disruption to the coastline.
Delays due to permissions and weather
Although NMPT had initiated efforts to dismantle the dredger, the process faced several delays. Departmental permissions, operational complexities and unfavourable weather conditions—especially during the monsoon and cyclonic spells—slowed progress.
Early attempts to remove parts of the dredger using boats provided limited success. Last year, dismantling resumed more effectively with the deployment of a barge-mounted crane, enabling larger sections to be cut and lifted.
Work now progressing steadily
As of now, two major sections of the dredger have been removed and transported away. Sources confirmed that over 50% of the dismantling has been completed, with work continuing on the remaining portion. A barge-mounted crane is positioned at the site, and a specialised team of cutters and technicians from Mumbai is undertaking the operations.
Local arrangements—including a shed to house workers and water storage facilities—have been made to support the ongoing work. Officials noted that intervention from local legislators helped expedite the process, though intermittent delays still occurred due to technical constraints and cyclonic conditions in the Arabian Sea.
Relief for fishermen and coastal residents
For years, fishermen in the region were compelled to alter their routes and movement patterns because of the stranded dredger. The slow dismantling process frequently led to frustration in the fishing community, which had demanded a quicker resolution.
Now, with visible progress on the dismantling front, local fishermen express renewed optimism. The removal of the wreck is expected to ease navigation, reduce risks during fishing trips and restore normalcy to coastal activity near Guddekopla.
Conclusion
The ongoing dismantling of Bhagwati Prem marks the final chapter in a six-year-long ordeal for residents and fishermen of Suratkal’s coastal belt. As the remaining sections are cleared in the coming weeks, the shoreline is expected to return to its original state, ending years of inconvenience and improving safety for all who rely on the area’s waters.