Crane Accident Injures Two During Cargo Lift at Mumbai Port

A major crane accident involving the Barbados-flagged, 2001-built bulk carrier *Vienna *occurred during heavy lift cargo operations at Mumbai Port on August 30, reportedly leaving two crane operators injured.

The incident took place at BPS Berth in Indira Dock while a 140-tonne cargo load was being lifted from the bulk carrier using two shore-based mobile cranes.

During the lifting operation, a sling securing the cargo reportedly became unbalanced and came loose, causing the load to move toward the second crane. As the cargo shifted, the second crane was lifted from the ground and its long extendable boom struck the Vienna. The impact resulted in a fire, which was subsequently brought under control by the Mumbai Port Authority Fire Brigade.

Both crane operators sustained injuries during the accident and were taken to hospital for medical treatment. The extent of the damage suffered by the *Vienna *has not yet been confirmed.

The Mumbai Port Authority has launched an investigation into the accident, including whether the required safety procedures were followed during the heavy lifting operation.

The *Vienna *is a Chinese-owned bulk carrier and the accident occurred after the vessel arrived in Mumbai from Shanghai on August 2.