The body of Zhang Tai, a Chinese sailor who went missing after falling into the sea at Paradip Port, was recovered, bringing a somber end to a multi-agency search operation.
Tai reportedly fell into the water while setting a ladder aboard the vessel “Lucky Dragon” at the Paradip International Cargo Terminal (PICT) on Friday. Despite a valiant rescue attempt by a Bangladeshi crew member, Tai remained missing for over 48 hours.
A coordinated search effort involving the Coast Guard, NDRF, ODRAF, marine police, scuba divers, and CISF personnel was launched immediately. On Sunday, the body was spotted floating near the port and retrieved by local authorities.
“The body will be repatriated to China with assistance from the Ministry of Shipping,” said Smruti Ranjan Kar, Additional Superintendent of Police, Paradip.
The vessel, which had docked to unload pig iron, was preparing to depart when the accident occurred. The Bangladeshi sailor who attempted the rescue was safely recovered by the crew.
This incident has raised concerns about safety protocols during cargo operations at international ports.
