MSC Ship Management (Hong Kong), the operator of the the ill-fated MSC Chitra that collided with the Khalijia-III on August 7, today alleged that the latter had ignored international navigation rules, resulting in the mishap.
Captain N Malhotra, who was navigating the MSC Chitra said, “The MSC Chitra had maintained her outbound course along the channel. But after crossing the channel Khalijia-III turned sharply to port and re-entered the channel. On re-entering, the Khalijia-III continued to turn to the port, contrary to rules of navigation, and its bow struck the MSC Chitra ahead of midships.”
Malhotra said the inquiry by the directorate general of shipping would reveal details about the cause of collision.
The recording from the Vessel’s Voyage Data recorder (S-DVR), an instrument similar to the black box in an aircraft, is being analysed by investigators.
The captain said, as part of its disaster management protocol the company had engaged professional salvors to rescue the vessel.
