On July 18, the 85 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Bliek ran aground on the Elbe River near Tesperhude, Germany. The Bliek was en route to Hildesheim when it suffered engine failure after a technical malfunction. The current pulled the Bliek towards the shoreline until the Bliek struck the submerged remains of an old quay wall.  The Bliek requested assistance with it’s sister ship, Asterode, arriving several hours later.  The Asterode pulled the Bliek free and towed the damaged tanker to Scharnebeck.  No reports of injuries. Divers inspected the Bliek and found damage to the forepeak which had suffered some water ingress.  Authorities allowed the Bliek continue on its voyage.