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Gorinchem VIII

Gorinchem VIII

Gorinchem VIII
Photo: gelderlander.nl

On the early morning of November 6, the 36 meter long passenger ferry Gorinchem VIII (MMSI: 244750275) caught fire on the Merwede River while berthed at a quay in Gorkum, Netherlands. Just before its first voyage of the day, the ferry crew found smoke coming out of the front hatch of the vessel. The local fire brigade arrived on scene with three fire engines. Firefighters were quickly able to extinguish the fire and help ventilate the smoke afterwards. Reports state the fire was started by a short circuit in one of the vessel’s battery chargers.

Another ferry was brought into service while the Gorinchem VIII could be cleaned.  The ferry was expected to be back into service later the same day. No reports of injuries or pollution released.

 

Alphenaar

Alphenaar

Alphenaar
Photo: 112hm.nl

On the morning of October 24, the 90 meter long self-propelled container barge Alphenaar (MMSI: 244059204) allided with the railway bridge over the Gouwe River near Gouda, Netherlands. The Alphenaar became wedged under the bridge as it attempted to pass underneath. The Alphenaar was able to free itself and added some additional ballast water to help lower the barge in the water. The vessel then proceeded safely under the bridge. Authorities detained the Alphenaar when it reach the lock to the Hollandsche Ijssel. Train traffic was halted near Gouda until engineers could investigate the damage to the bridge.

Reports state traffic resumed on the bridge a few hours later.  No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released on the Alphenaar.

Mordicus

Mordicus

Mordicus
Photo: sleutelstad.nl

On the morning of October 11, the 70 meter long self-propelled barge Mordicus (MMSI: 244740107) allided with a railway bridge over the Gouwe River near the Alpherium Terminal in Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands. The Mordicus attempted to pass under the partially open swing bridge when its bow struck the bridge and became stuck. Rail traffic and shipping traffic on the Gouwe was temporary suspended for a day until the barge could be freed.

Reports state damage to the Mordicus‘s bow was minor. No reports of injuries or pollution released. The incident is under investigation.

Damage to the bridge was also limited, but an inspection found the bridge no longer met safety and technical standards. The inspection revealed the swing bridge had deteriorated where it could become permanently stuck at any time. Authorities state the bridge will need to be replaced in the near future blocking traffic on the rail and river for over 9 months.