BLAST ONBOARD SAGAR BHUSHAN DRILLSHIP KILLS FIVE

Five people have reportedly been killed and at least 11 injured in a blast on the ONGC drillship Sagar Bhushan under maintenance at Cochin Shipyard.
Reports say the blast happened around 11 am in the water tanker of Sagar Bhushan, that has been dry docking since December 7, 2017, and was undergoing mandatory Special Survey (Hull & Machinery) as per class requirement.
The injured have been taken to nearby hospitals. Police and fire tenders have rushed to the spot and rescue operations are underway.
Union Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari has ordered an inquiry into the blast. He also said he has instructed authorities to provide all medical support necessary to those injured in the mishap.
“Shocked by unfortunate blast at Cochin Shipyard where 4 people have died. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families. I have spoken to MD,Cochin Shipyard n asked him to provide all necessary medical support to victims and to initiate immediate inquiry with help of concerned agencies,” Gadkari’s tweet read.
Of the 12 people rushed to nearby hospitals, five of them succumbed to injuries while another person suffered 45 per cent burns.
Sagar Bhushan owned by ONGC is a Pelican Class mid-water floater built at Hindustan shipyard, India, in 1987. (Sources: The Indu, Indian Express)