On March 20, the 105 meter long self-propelled barge Delos collided with the 65 meter long self-propelled barge Ventura on the Rhine near Xanten, Germany. The Delos struck the Ventura resulting in destroying the wheelhouse of the Ventura. The master and his wife on the Ventura sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital. Reports state the cause of the collision was not clear.The water police has launched an investigation.
The 105 meter long self-propelled barge Anthrazit ran aground on the Rhine near Ruhrort, Germany. The Anthrazit was proceeding in ballast only when it ran aground near the confluence with the Ruhr. The water police were contacted and has launched an investigation into the incident. The cause of the grounding was not disclosed. Reports state the Anthrazit is not blocking traffic and is no danger to other vessels. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
The 100 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Eiltank 24 went aground on the Rhine near Birsfelden, Switzerland. The Eiltank 24 was proceeding on the Rhine with 1800 tons of heavy oil when it struck bottom after locking through Birsfelden. The tanker-barge had sustained damage to its outer hull and proceeded to secure itself along the riverbank until authorities could arrive. Traffic was halted on the Rhine in the Basel area until the Eiltank 24 could be fully inspected.
Reports state the inner hull of the Eiltank 24 had not been damaged and no pollution had been released. No reports of injuries. Authorities have stated an investigation has been launched into the incident.