Expedition vessel M/V Ivan Papanin, after completing cargo operations at Bharati Station (WAP IND-Ø4) Larsemann Hills (69° 24’ 24.4” South, 76° 11’ 42.9” East) started her onward journey at 23:35 Hrs local time (18:35 UTC) on Monday, 05 February 2018 heading to the second Indian Station Matiri (WAP IND-Ø3) at Schirmacher Oasis (70° 46’ 00” South, 11° 43’ 50.8” East).
After a few hours of sailing, Vessel met with an accident. Initial investigation suggests heavy water ingress in the ballast tank No. 2. Passenger and crew are safe on board and there is no oil spillage.
Papanin has now returned to the mooring location off-Bharati station (see stock pic aside)
While the crew is attempting to fix the water ingress, passengers have been safely moved to Bharati Base. Cargo and fuel on board meant for Maitri Station is being moved to Bharati station as well. Details of investigation and assessment of the damage is awaited.
Source: http://www.ncaor.gov.in/news/view/414
Since the last four years, the voyage leg to the Indian Bases in Antarctica is undertaken by a Russian Cargo Vessel M/V Ivan Papanin which offers limited lab space.