Cargo Vessel OSM Arena Drifts Towards Chennai Coast, India

The OSM Arena, a Korean cargo vessel, is drifting towards the Chennai coast of India upon being exposed to heavy winds.

The vessel carrying approximately 400-tons of bunker fuel was not able to brace for coming storm due to a malfunctioned winch, leaving the ship unable to drop the anchor.

In case the weather conditions improve, the Chennai Port Trust will dispatch engineers to repair the broken winch and two tugs to tow the vessel back to high seas. Otherwise, the vessel will face the risk of running aground on India’s coast.

Shinhan Capital-owned and Ocean Success Maritime-managed OSM Arena was arrested 22 months ago by authorities on a warrant issued by court, as a result of a commercial dispute between the vessel’s owner and cargo owner. The crew of 12 members of Burma nationality have beeen stranded on board ever since.

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World Maritime News Staff, January 2, 2012;