The 146 meter long, 19992 dwt tanker Bunga Lotus collided with 3 barges on the Parana River near Ramallo, Argentina. The Bunga Lotus was proceeding upriver in ballast when it struck the barges under tow by a tug.The tanker sustained hull damage with its bunker tanks holed releasing some fuel. No reports of injuries, but oil pollution was spotted in the river. The Bunga Lotus was en route to San Lorenzo to load 5,000 tons of diesel fuel.
On December 13, the 176 meter long chemical tanker Ghetty Bottiglieri collided with the 180 meter long bulk carrier Octbreeze Island at the 285 kilometer mark on the Paraná River off San Pedro, Argentina. The Octbreeze Island was heading down the river when it was struck in it’s port side by the bow of the Ghetty Bottiglieri. The Octbreeze Island suffered a 5 to 6 meter gash in its hull resulting in its fuel tanks being punctured. The bulk carrier had severe flooding and developed a list, but was not in danger of sinking. A large oil slick formed downstream from the bulk carrier which was partially contained later by booms placed by authorities. The Ghetty Bottiglieri sustained damage to its bow. No reports of injuries on either vessel. Both vessels dropped anchor near the area of the collision. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Local reports state the vessels were in a severe storm at the time of the collision.
On September 15, the 220 meter long bulk carrier Abyo Angelina ran aground on the Parana River near Arroyo Seco, Argentina. The Abyo Angelina was bound for China with 40,000 tons of iron ore when it got stuck in the river. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. The vessel remained aground for several days until the tug Ranquel was able to refloat the Abyo Angelina on September 19.
