The 160 meter long self-propelled barge Trias Obelix ran aground on the Waal River near Nijmegen, Netherlands. The Trias Obelix had struck bottom to the low water level of the river. When the vessel attempted to free itself, the river current pulled the barge perpendicular to the river. The crew was able to drop anchor and turn the vessel around . No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
The 183 meter long, 37500 dwt tanker Bow Jubail allided with a pier at Rotterdam, Netherlands. The Bow Jubail had a pilot on board and was being escorted by a tug when it struck the jetty against the starboard hull. The hull was breached rupturing the bunker tanks. Some 217 tons of fuel oil spilt out of the Bow Jubail into the harbor. No reports of injuries to the 29 crew on board.
Authorities dispatched harbor vessels and fire boats to the scene to contain the pollution. Booms were placed to help contain some of the oil, but reports state the pollution may impact shorelines. Several reports state wildlife including birds were found to be coated by oil. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On April 30, the 64 meter long self-propelled barge Stern allided and ran aground on a quay in Gorinchem, Netherlands. The Stern was headed to North Brabant from Merwede when it stranded on the quay. The Stern couldn’t be refloated by itself as the bow was stuck on shore. Another barge arrived a short time later the same day and pulled the Stern free. The stern proceeded to Maasbracht. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
