Three Capsize on La Gi Estuary

Three Capsize on La Gi Estuary

BTh 85885 TS
Photo: plo.vn

On the morning of November 8, three fishing vessels BTh 81196 TS, BTh 85885 TS, and BTh 86131 TS capsized and sunk on the Song Dinh River in the La Gi estuary in Lâm Đồng province, Vietnam.  All three fishing vessels were caught in strong currents caused by the confluence of the Song Dinh River and large swells from the South China Sea. The BTh 81196 TS capsized and completely sunk. The other fishing vessels were partially sunk resting on their starboard hull.  Reports sate the initial damage has been estimated into the hundred of millions of dong (~4,000 USD). There were no reports of any injuries.

News accounts have stated the La Gi estuary has been known to be dangerous for several years. The Song Dinh has deposited large amount of sand making the navigation difficult. The silting was a known issue and the area required regular dredging.

MSC Kyparissia

MSC Kyparissia

MSC Kyparissia
Photo: facebook

On the afternoon of November 7, the 255 meter long, 68129 dwt container ship MSC Kyparissia (IMO: 9618599) caught fire in the Johor Strait while berth at the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, Malaysia. Reports state the fire started in the under-hatch section of Block 5 while the crew were unloading containers. One crew member was killed and another 3 sustained injuries.  Another 2 dock workers were also killed from the fire. The injured crew were taken to hospital for treatment.

The local fire brigade deployed nine firefighters, one firetruck, a multi-purpose vehicle, and two tugs to combat the blaze.  Reports state the blaze was later brought under control, but fire fighters remain on site in case of reignition. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. The extent of damage to the MSC Kyparissia has not been disclosed.

Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin

Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin

Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin
Photo: facebook

On November 8, the 222 meter long, 31585 dwt self-unloader bulk carrier Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin (IMO: 7324405) ran aground on the Detroit River off Detroit, Michigan. The Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin was headed to Quebec City when it stranded in the river. The cause of the grounding had not been disclosed by authorities. The United States Coast Guard did state there were no injuries and no pollution released.

Multiple tugs were dispatched to free the bulk carrier, but poor visibility delayed refloating efforts until the following morning.