Authorities of the Mumbai-based company Megha Dredging Private Limited, which owns the dredger, said that steps were being taken to clear the vessel from the Mundakkal beach by July 21. An assurance in this connection was given to Collector A. Shainamol on Wednesday. This was following a warning from the Collector that if the vessel was not cleared by that date, legal action would be taken against the company for any damage to the area. The Collector’s action comes in the wake of residents expressing fears that the beached vessel was triggering sea erosion in the area which may lead to loss of life and property. To tow away the vessel, a barrier with sand-filled bags has to be created for keeping the waves at bay. The sand around the ship will then have to be scooped away for the tug to tow away the dredger, the owners said.
