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Day: August 19, 2013

Smart Aground

Smart Aground

SMART

The 273 meter long, 151279 dwt bulk freighter Smart went aground  on a sandbar off Richards Bay, South Africa.  The bulk freighter had finished loading its 147,650 tons of coal at the terminal at Richards Bay when left the harbour.   The Smart only travelled a short distance when its engines failed.   The heavy swells pushed the bulk freighter onto the shallows.  The Smart suffered a massive crack and eventually broke-in-two by the following day.   All 23 crew were rescued by NSRI helicopter crews.  No reports of injuries.

Authorities state they are fearing the worse case scenario as the vessel had  1,500 tons of heavy fuel oil and a large quantity of diesel fuel.  Some pollution has already been spotted and clean up operations have begun.

Reports state the vessel did not have a pilot on board when it left the harbour.  The vessel’s owners, Esmeralda Schiffahrts, has stated that clean up operations will be covered by the company and its insurers.

Donations to assist the National Sea Rescue Institute can be made at: http://www.nsri.org.za/ways-to-support-us/give-a-donation

 

Two tankers aground on the Rhine

Two tankers aground on the Rhine

Photo: n-tv.de
Photo: n-tv.de

The 110 meter long self-propelled tanker Emma went aground on the Rhine near Cologne, Germany due to low tide.   Ten minutes later the the 86 meter long self-propelled tanker Newton went aground a short distance away.  No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.   The Newton was loaded with 1543 tons of petroleum while the Emma was loaded with 1800 tons of diesel. The container barge Henri R later attempted to pull the Emma free.  The outcome was not reported.  The vessels may required to be lightered before other attempts are made.

Photo: n-tv.de
Photo: n-tv.de

 

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