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Ibis Update

Ibis Update

Ibis

On June 7, reports state the dredge Ibis has released pollution into the waters off Ullal,  India.  The dredge has been slowly sinking by the stern when a fuel tank was punctured by a large rock.  There is a strong odor of diesel fuel in the air. Locals report other debris has  also begun washing onto the beach.

Ibis

Authorities had stated a team of experts were supposed to be at the wreck site by June 4, but did not arrive until the next day.

Ibis

Another report states that authorities had been instructed to remove fuel and oil off the Ibis, but could not be attempted due to weather and rough seas. Thus, no fuel or oil has been removed from the dredge.

Ibis

Ibis

Ibis
Photo: newindianexpress.com

On June 3, the 66 meter long, 2600 dwt dredge barge Ibis began to sink off Ullal, Karnataka, India. The Ibis had been working on breakwater construction when it was caught in bad weather. The dredge began to flood from the heavy seas and was in danger of capsizing.

Local authorities were alerted and the Indian Coast Guard dispatched a rescue vessel which was patrolling near by. The rescue boat arrived on scene and began rescue operations. Rescuers were able to transfer four of the 27 crew on board the Ibis before weather slowed their efforts. Not until the following day did authorities were able to rescue all the remaining 23 crew. No reports of injuries.

Authorities reported there is some concern that some pollution will be released. Several items have broken free from the dredge including gas cylinder and other flotsam. Reports state the Ibis had both fuel oil and diesel fuel on board it’s fuel tanks and the dredge is close to the shoreline making it a high risk of fouling beaches with pollution.

On June 5, the Ibis had partially sank with some of the superstructure still above water. Reports state the dredge will most likely sink by the next day unless authorities can successfully tow the vessel into port.