Nilam brought Ship to the shore | Nilam's effect in Tamilnadu and Chennai costal areas | Mahabalipuram Photos

Between 6:30 and 7:30 am this morning, two Coast Guard choppers and small vessels rescued 15 sailors trapped on an oil tanker. Another five are still missing.

The crew members of the Pratbiha Cauvery were collected this morning after they spent the night trapped on the ship which had been anchored near the Chennai port but was cut loose during the gales that preceded Cyclone Nilam’s landfall last evening. Rescue operations were suspended at dusk on account of bad weather.

On Wednesday afternoon, the captain of the ship had warned the 37 people on board that the ship could sink after it ran aground near Chennai’s Marina beach. 17 members then jumped into a life boat which capsized in the choppy waters. One person died, and by last night, 16 had reached the shore, with help from local fishermen. They were rushed to hospital.

Dr Meera, Medical Superintendent, Fortis Malar Hospital, Chennai says, “What they say is they were on the ship for over a month, they ran out of fuel and food and after it was grounded the Captain told them to move out using the life boat.”

Shipping authorities have reported that the “Pratibha Cauvery” is not badly damaged and that a plan to re float it is being drawn up.