THE MV Sabanto, which ran aground on November 17 on Wakenaam Island enroute to Supenaam from Parika, was back in water late yesterday afternoon.Marclene Merchant, Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) General Manager confirmed that the vessel came off on its own power around 16:00 hrs.
“The tide was high [2.88 meters], so the vessel was able to come off without us having to utilise tugs,” she stated.
Provisions were in place by the Ministry of Public Works to remove the vessel by week-end.
According to Ms. Merchant, checks indicate there was no damage to the vessel. In light of this, the MV Sabanto will resume its operation under the command of another crew today at its scheduled time.
Around 00:35 h on November 17, the vessel ran aground. No injuries were reported and passengers disembarked at first light by water taxis.
The following day, nine of the 10 vehicles aboard the vessel were removed. The other came off yesterday when the vessel docked at Supenaam.
Investigations into the incident are still ongoing, according to the Transport and Harbours Department.