New Diamond oil tanker No leakages found, say Indian Coast Guard

• The ship’s hull was intact and reported to be stable
• MT New Diamond is currently at a distance of 52 nautical miles off the Sri Lankan coast

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

The Indian Coast Guard, Sri Lanka Navy and commercial divers yesterday conducted a joint underwater inspection of the MT New Diamond oil tanker for sealing underwater openings if any.    The Indian Coast Guard reported that no leakage of oil had been detected and the ship’s hull was intact and reported to be stable.   

Meanwhile, a special team from the Marine Environment Protection Authority also visited the ship to take samples of all fuels on board.   

The MT New Diamond is currently at a distance of 52 nautical miles off the Sri Lankan coast.   

Meanwhile, a special discussion was to be held between the Attorney General and the heads of all institutions that took action to control the fire on the ship yesterday,” an official said.   

Officials from the Sri Lanka Navy, the SL Ports Authority, the Coast Conservation Department, the Marine Environment Protection Authority and the Merchant Shipping Department are scheduled to participate at the discussion.   

• A special discussion was to be held between the Attorney General and the heads of all institutions that took action to control the fire on the ship yesterday