The 180 meter long, 34627 dwt bulk carrier Rainbow Quest struck the Brooklyn Bridge on the East River in New York. The vessel’s light tower struck the underside of the bridge. Authorities stopped traffic on the bridge for two hours while it was inspected for damage. No damage was reported and the bridge was reopen for traffic. Reports state the river’s tide was high, but not at its highest point. No injuries or pollution released.
On October 24, the 200 meter long bulk carrier Saga Falcon ran aground on the Rio de la Plata near Martin Garcia Island, Argentina. The Saga Falcon’s bow sustained damage suffering water ingress. The vessel’s pumps were able to control the flooding. A repair crew was requested and begun work on damaged compartments in the vessel. After the wrok is completed, the pumps would dewater the hull and mutliple tugs would refloat the vessel on the rising tide. Reports state the Saga Falcon would require lightering and will transfer some of its cargo of cement to another vessel. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Traffic around the Saga Falcon was restricted to vessels with draft under 7 meters.
The 289 meter long, 170082 dwt bulk carrier New Katerina caught fire with berthed in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The fire started on an excavator working the vessel’s hold. The New Katerina, loaded with coal, released dense smoke. The crew was able to escape the vessel with no injuries. The local fire brigade, assisted by fire boats, were able to bring the blaze under control a few hours later. No reports of pollution released.
