On the morning of March 20, a barge sank on a gravel lake in Northeim, Germany. The barge was operating on a gravel lake when it sustained damage and lost buoyancy. The barge partially sank with just part of the hull still above water. Reports state there was no pollution released as the vessel had no engine and no oil stored onboard. The barge owner states damage may be as high as 10.000€. Owners did state they plan to salvage the barge.
On the afternoon of March 18, the 72 meter long, 2366 dwt cargo vessel Venture (IMO: 9030503) ran aground on the Elbe just outside of Hamburg, Germany. The Venture had suffered engine problems and went adrift. The cargo vessel drifted until its stranded in shallow water. Authorities were alerted and dispatched multiple tugs to the scene. Reports state the tugs were successful and towed the Venture back to Hamburg. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
On the afternoon of March 13, the 110 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge RP Praag (IMO: 9982847) caught fire on the Rhine near Grimlingshausen, Germany. The fire erupted in the engine room releasing dense smoke. A fire recue boat from Neuss arrived on scene with fire fighters who boarded the RP Praag. An inspection found the fire had extinguished itself and only the engine room was filled with smoke. Fire fighters used ventilators to clear smoke out of the compartment. One crew member sustained injuries from smoke inhalation and was taken to hospital for treatment.
The RP Praag was able to proceed to Neuss where it berthed. Damage from the fire was not disclosed. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.