Balder
On the afternoon of July 18, the 98 meter long self-propelled barge Balder (MMSI: 244660032) caught fire on the Oude Maas River near Rhoon, Netherlands. The Balder was en route to Duisburg with a cargo of coal when a fire broke out in the engine room. The fire released dense smoke making it impossible for the 3 crew to access the engine room. The crew alerted the local fire brigade to assist. Unable to steer and moor the Balder, the fire brigade had to be transported over to the vessel. Assisted by a fireboat, the fire fighters were able to extinguish the blaze in short time. The fire fighters then ventilated the engine room. No reports of injuries to the crew and the vessel’s dog.
Reports stated the Balder was taken under tow and berthed in Rotterdam. The water police has launched an investigation into the incident. The cause of the fire was not disclosed.