The 80 meter long self-propelled barge Verandering allided with the Koningin Máxima Bridge at Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands. The Verandering was passing under the bridge when the wheelhouse struck the bridge. The Verandering’s wheelhouse had its roof torn off while the bridge sustained some concrete damage. Traffic was halted until the Verandering was taken to a nearby quay while the bridge was inspected for damage. No reports of injuries.
On March 3, the 270 meter long, 74375 dwt MSC Madrid collided with the 199 meter long, 14012 dwt ro-ro passenger ferry Primula Seaways off Flushing, Netherlands. The MSC Madrid had made a turn which caused it to strike into the port side of the Primula Seaways. Both vessels sustained significant damage above the waterline and were detained until surveys could be completed. The Primula Seaways was found seaworthy and allowed to proceed on its voyage to Ghent later the same day. The MSC Madrid was also allowed to continue on its voyage from Hamburg to Antwerp. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On February 20, the 48 meter long self-propelled barge Concordia sprung a leak while in a lock on the Rhine near Heveadorp, Netherlands. Loaded with 300 tons of sand and 125 tons of gravel, the Concordia suffered water ingress from a crack in the foreship hull. The forward engine room flooded so the master of the barge moved his vessel to the side of the lock and requested assistance. The local fire brigade arrived with dewatering pumps. With the pumps, the crew was able to dewater the compartment allowing for repairs to patch the hull. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Reports state the Concordia may have been struck by another vessel exiting the lock.
