Sethu ship sinks, narrow escape for scientists, crew

Chennai, May 7 (UNI) Scientists and crew had a miraculous escape when their tug ship, engaged for enviromental studies in connection with the ongoing Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project (SSCP), sank about 40 nautical miles off Kodiakkarai Coast in Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu early today.

According to delayed reports received by the police headquarters here, in all 18 people, including the crew, were on board 'TUG VI,' belonging to the Dredging Corporation of India (DCI), when the ship sank following an explosion.

The scientists of Alagappa University in Karaikudi and crew managed to escape using life boats.

The reason for the explosion on board the Rs 100 crore dredging vessel was being ascertained.

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