Crane Collapse at Magdalla Jetty: Gujarat Maritime Board Launches Probe After Viral Video

Surat | Gujarat — A major mishap was narrowly averted at sea when a crane engaged in unloading coal-laden vessels of Shreeji Shipping Company of Jamnagar collapsed amid fierce winds near Magdalla Jetty. Videos of the incident, which occurred on Monday as wind speeds touched 60–70 kmph, have gone viral on social media, sparking widespread concern.

The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has immediately launched an investigation into the collapse, raising questions over safety measures in maritime cargo handling operations.

Strong Winds Triggered Disaster

For the past three days, South Gujarat has been battered by heavy winds, with coastal areas such as Valsad and Chikhli reporting extensive damage. On safety grounds, the GMB had ordered Magdalla Jetty to remain closed, halting all loading and unloading activities.

However, a vessel loaded with coal from Shreeji Shipping Company was anchored in the sea, away from the jetty. To continue operations, a crane was transported to the vessel for unloading coal into barges. But as wind speeds picked up dramatically on Monday, the crane could not withstand the force.

Eyewitnesses reported that the crane swayed violently before its heavy front portion gave way and collapsed into the sea. Fortunately, as unloading had already been suspended, no workers were injured and a larger tragedy was prevented.

“A Major Accident Was Averted”

Speaking on the incident, a GMB official said, “The jetty was closed in advance due to the forecast of strong winds. Because of this, unloading operations were suspended, which prevented what could have been a major accident. Still, the deployment of such a heavy crane in the middle of the sea under adverse weather conditions raises serious safety concerns.”

A local worker familiar with the operations remarked, “Everyone could see the crane struggling against the winds. It should never have been risked in such weather. Thankfully, no lives were lost.”

Investigation Underway

After the video of the collapse surfaced online, the Gujarat Maritime Board announced that it has taken the matter seriously. A team has been constituted to assess whether negligence was involved in deploying the crane under unsafe weather conditions.

The official further added, “Once the inquiry is complete, strict action will be taken against those found responsible. Maritime safety is non-negotiable, and such incidents cannot be tolerated.”

Growing Concerns Over Maritime Safety

The incident has once again highlighted the risks faced by port workers and shipping companies in Gujarat, particularly during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons when unpredictable winds and storms are common along the Arabian Sea coast.

Industry experts have also stressed the need for stronger enforcement of safety protocols. “Videos like this not only damage the reputation of the shipping industry but also put lives at risk. Companies must strictly adhere to weather advisories,” said a maritime analyst in Surat.

While no casualties occurred this time, the crane collapse near Magdalla Jetty has sparked calls for accountability. The investigation by the Gujarat Maritime Board is expected to determine whether safety norms were compromised and what steps will be taken to prevent such dangerous lapses in the future.