Abandoned Ship MV Sencer 1 At Risk Of Sinking In Mumbai Harbour, High Court Steps In
On Friday, the Bombay High Court was alerted to an emergency situation in Mumbai harbour, where the abandoned merchant vessel MV Sencer 1 is at risk of drifting, capsizing, or sinking due to monsoon weather, endangering the two crew members remaining onboard. The Zanzibar-flagged vessel is currently anchored approximately one nautical mile off the coast of Mumbai.
The National Union of Seafarers India (NUSI) informed the high court on Friday about the deteriorating condition of the vessel. Appearing for NUSI, advocate Kunal Gaikwad stated that the anchor and the vessel have been drifting amid heavy rain and rough seas, creating an emergency situation for the ship and its crew. The vessel is currently in "cold lay-up," meaning its machinery is non-functional.
MV Sencer 1 has been anchored at the harbour since June 2025, following a legal dispute with service supplier Akash Deep over unpaid dues. The vessel was subsequently arrested by the Bombay High Court and placed under the custody of the Sheriff of Mumbai. After its Indonesian crew was repatriated on June 28, 2025, NUSI assured the court it would provide a replacement crew.
While a previous crew was permitted to return home in May, two seafarers are currently manning the defunct ship. Maritime experts noted that the monsoon has increased the risks, as squally winds and choppy seas can cause an abandoned vessel to flood, drift, or capsize.
During the court proceedings, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), represented by advocate Ashish Mehta, urged the court to expedite a third auction of the vessel to prevent further deterioration and satisfy outstanding maritime claims. Two previous auction attempts have been unsuccessful.
Additionally, the Mumbai Port Authority informed the court that the plaintiff, Akash Deep, had failed to appear, prompting a request for summons to secure his presence.
Justice Abhay Ahuja observed that the matter has reached a complex stage and appointed senior advocate D D Madon as amicus curiae to assist the court. The high court is scheduled to hear the matter again on Tuesday to pass further orders regarding the safety of the vessel and its crew.
