The Orissa High Court has ordered the arrest of cargo vessel MV Densa Lion at Paradip Port over unpaid maintenance dues amounting to Rs 42.72 lakh.
The directive follows a petition filed by Waypoint Port Services Ltd., citing non-payment for services rendered.
The vessel, which arrived at Paradip to load iron plates, is currently docked at the PICT berth. Acting on the court’s instructions, port authorities have detained the ship, which will remain anchored until further orders are issued in the next hearing.
This marks the latest in a series of vessel arrests at Paradip Port over commercial disputes. In the past year alone, more than four ships have faced similar legal action. Notably, three of those vessels were released after settling dues through court-mediated resolutions.
Legal experts note that such arrests are governed under admiralty law, allowing creditors to secure claims against foreign vessels operating in Indian waters. The fate of MV Densa Lion now hinges on the outcome of the upcoming hearing, which will determine whether the ship can resume operations or remain under detention.
