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Collision on the Elbe

Collision on the Elbe

Övelgönne
Photo: mopo.de

On the morning of January 25, the 30 meter long passenger ferry Övelgönne (MMSI: 211151080) was in collision in poor visibility with a barge being pushed by the self-propelled container-barge Hanse (MMSI: 211760410) on the Elbe River at Hamburg, Germany.  The Övelgönne was headed to the Dockland pier with 25 passengers from Finkenwerder when it approached the Hanse which had departed from Braunschweig with a convoy of barges.  As the vessels approached the Dockland pier in dense fog, the Övelgönne was struck on the starboard hull by a lead barge.  The ferry’s hull was partially crushed above the waterline with multiple windows smashed.  Passengers were struck by flying debris and sprayed by water resulting in multiple injuries. One passenger was knock unconscious and was reported as in critical condition with a brain injury. Ten others on board were slightly injured with many suffering from hypothermia. The Övelgönne was able to berth where it was met by local authorities and emergency personnel. All the injured passengers were taken to hospital for treatment.

The Hanse was able to continue and proceeded to Waltershof where it berthed and met by local authorities. The water police launched an investigation into incident. Both the captains of the Övelgönne and Hanse were given a breathalyzer test which were negative. Authorities have reported that dense fog may have been a major factor in the collision. Initial investigation stated the Övelgönne was equipped with radar and it was manned with an experienced master. The investigation most likely will focus on why the radar wasn’t being monitored when visibility was limited at the time of the incident.

Elan

Elan

Elan
Photo: ln-online.de

On August 21, the 80 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Elan ran aground on the Elbe near Hamburg, Germany. The Elan was proceeding on the Elbe with 1200 tons of heating oil and heavy fuel when it grounded near a dike off Hamburg.  Authorities were alerted and dispatched vessels to the scene to monitor the situation.  An hour later with the rising tide, the Elan was able to refloat itself.  No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.

Admiral

Admiral

Admiral
Photo: harburg-aktuell.de

On May 25, a fire broke out on the 80 meter long self-propelled barge Admiral while moored on the Elbe River at Roßdamm, Germany. The Admiral had been moored at Roßdamm a few days when a fire broke out in the vessel’s galley. Nearby witnesses reported seeing smoke billowing out from the vessel and alerted authorities. Local fire brigade arrived on scene and found the bow cabin engulfed in flames. Firefighters were able later to contain the fire and soon after extinguish it.

The sole person on board the vessel perished in the fire. Authorities state the person may not been able to escape before succumbing to the smoke. The water police has launched an investigation into the incident.

Admiral