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Tag: Belgium

Stuck at Rumst

Stuck at Rumst

Nautica
Photo: hln.be

On May 22, the 67 meter long self-propelled barge Swette (MMSI: 244740259) and the 48 meter long self-propelled barge Nautica (MMSI: 205500090) ran aground at the confluence of the Nete and Rupel Rivers in Rumst, Belgium. The two vessels had become stuck due to low water levels. One vessel was firmly stuck on a bank while the other was stuck by the stern. The water police was alerted to the situation.

Swette
Photo: hln.be

Reports state the local authority was aware of the sandbank and had asked for a buoy to mark it’s location. They also stated that vessels have run aground regularly in the area. There were no reports of injuries or pollution released.

Ina XL

Ina XL

Ina XL
Photo: flows.be

On the evening of May 16, the 23 meter long towboat Ina XL (MMSI: 244139668)  sank in the port of Antwerp, Belgium.  The Ina XL was reported to be moored near the Noordkasteel Bridge when it suffered uncontrolled water ingress and partially sank next to the quay. Authorities were alerted and requested divers to assist in refloating the towboat. No reports of injuries.

Delphine

Delphine

Delphine
Photo: vrt.be

On the afternoon of April 16, the 234 meter long, 27687 dwt ro-ro car carrier Delphine (IMO: 9789245) caught fire while berthed at Zeebrugge, Belgium.  The fire started on the vehicle deck where a cargo of electric vehicles were being stored. Reports state the deck filled with dense black smoke. Everyone on board the Delphine was safely evacuated to shore. No injuries reported.

Reports state the local fire brigade arrived aided by 3 fire tugs to contain the blaze. Authorities stated the vessel’s carbon dioxide fire suppression was able to contain the fire after the deck was sealed off. Fire fighters are monitoring the vessel in case the fire would flare up again.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. News reports suggest it may have started by one of the batteries on an electric vehicle. The amount of damage cause by the fire had not yet disclosed.