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Tag: Belgium

Monte Wymper

Monte Wymper

Vierwaldstättersee
Photo: heusden-zolder.eu

On the night of September 23, the 110 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Vierwaldstättersee (MMSI: 211806570) allided with the 82 meter long self-propelled barge Monte Wymper (MMSI: 270362000) in the Albert Canal near Viversel, Belgium. The Monte Wymper had been moored along a quay when it broke free and drifted into the canal. The Monte Wymper was nearly purpindicular to the canal as the Vierwaldstättersee approached with 900 tons of aluminum hydroxide bound for Maastricht. The Vierwaldstättersee was unable to stop and struck the Monte Wymper.  The Monte Wymper sustained two cracks  in the hull near the cabin and loading area while the Vierwaldstättersee only suffered minor damage.  No reports of injuries or pollution released.

The local fire brigade arrived on scene and found the situation under control with both vessels were moored along a quay.  However, a few hours later the fire brigade was back on scene as the Monte Wymper had water ingress and was threatening to sink.  Dewatering pumps were installed to keep the flooding under control while divers inspected the hull for damage below the waterline.  Reports state the fire brigade finished its work several hours later and a salvage team was on site.

 

Rimari

Rimari

Rimari
Photo: heusden-zolder.eu

On August 22, the 135 meter long self-propelled barge Rimari caught fire while en route to Antwerp on the Albert Canal off Eversel, Belgium. The fire started in the vessel’s generator located in the forward engine room. The master of the Rimari was able to extinguish the blaze using the vessel’s built-in fire suppression system.  The local fire brigade arrived on scene a short time later and assisted in ventilating the engine room. An inspection found there had been some damage, but the extent of damage was not reported. No reports of injuries or pollution released.

 

Maranta

Maranta

Maranta
Photo: hln.be

On January 17,  the 80 meter long self–propelled barge Maranta allided with the Humbeek-Sas bridge over the Brussels-Scheldt Canal near Grimbergen, Belgium.  The Maranta was following a vessel passing under the bridge when the bridge began lowering the deck.  The Maranta struck with enough force to knock the deck and shift bridge pillars.  

Maranta
Photo: hln.be

Local authorities were alerted and stopped all traffic on the bridge.  The Maranta berthed nearby and was surveyed for damage to its bow.  No reports of injuries.  Reports state the bridge will require a new road deck which may take several weeks.