On May 15, the 180 meter long, 36,898 dwt bulk carrier Mars Harmony ran aground on the Parana River near Villa Constitución, Argentina. The vessel was bound for Bahia Blanca from Rosario when it stranded loaded with cargo of corn and soybeans. The bulk carrier remained aground until the following day when tugs were able to be refloated. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
On May 11, the 151 meter long, 23573 dwt bulk carrier Samudra Sakti and the 299 meter long, 86018 dwt container ship Shahraz collided and stranded in the Strait of Singapore near Sambu Island, Batam, Riau Islands. The Shahraz was headed for Shanghai while the Samudra Sakti was bound for Bayah. Reports state the vessels had to make a last minute course change to avoid striking a tug crossing their path. Authorities tried to alert both vessels of the potential collision and grounding, but it was too late. The Samudra Sakti struck the Shahraz amidships before both vessels went aground.
The Shahraz sustained hull damage with several large dents along with cracks above and below the waterline. The Samudra Sakti sustained on minor damage to its bow. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
Authorities dispatched multiple patrol vessels to the scene. Authorities were able to refloat the Samudra Sakti later the same day. The bulk carrier proceeded to a nearby anchorage where it was to be inspected. Reports state the Shahraz remained aground as the boxship was to be inspected while a salvage plan was being created. The name of the tug that caused the incident has not been released.
On April 6, the 118 meter long, 10,110 dwt bulk carrier CSL Elbe allided with the pier at Stade-Bützfleth, Germany. The bulk carrier had arrived from Rafnes and was attempting to maneuver to its berth when the port-side stern struck the pier. The bulk carrier along with the pier sustained damage. The water police launched an investigation into the incident. Reports state there was a pilot on board and tugs were assisting at the bow and stern. The CSL Elbe was allowed to depart the port bound for Jossingfjord on April 8th. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
