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Tag: Self-Propelled Barge

Balder

Balder

Balder
Photo: ad.nl

On the afternoon of July 18, the 98 meter long self-propelled barge Balder (MMSI: 244660032) caught fire on the Oude Maas River near Rhoon, Netherlands.  The Balder was en route to Duisburg with a cargo of coal when a fire broke out in the engine room. The fire released dense smoke making it impossible for the 3 crew to access the engine room.  The crew alerted the local fire brigade to assist. Unable to steer and moor the Balder, the fire brigade had to be transported over to the vessel. Assisted by a fireboat, the fire fighters were able to extinguish the blaze in short time. The fire fighters then ventilated the engine room. No reports of injuries to the crew and the vessel’s dog.

Balder

Reports stated the Balder was taken under tow and berthed in Rotterdam.  The water police has launched an investigation into the incident. The cause of the fire was not disclosed.

Helga

Helga

Helga
Photo: dieharke.de

On the afternoon of July 8, the 85 meter long self-propelled barge Helga (MMSI: 211670730) allided on the Weser River near Dörverden, Germany. The master of the Helga had lost control of the vessel which struck  a dolphin along the riverbank. The Helga sustained significant damage to the starboard foreship that has been estimated to be in the five-figure range. An investigation by the water policy found the master of the Helga was suffering from health problems which may have contributed to the incident. Authorities stated that alcohol was not a factor.  The water police have detained the Helga from proceeding and the vessel was taken to a nearby mooring. No reports of pollution released.

Helga

Fairplay

Fairplay

 

Fairplay
Photo: tvaktuell.com

On the morning of June 11, the 105 meter long self-propelled barge Fairplay (MMSI: 211234090) ran aground on the Danube River near Regensburg, Germany. The Fairplay was headed to Linz from Nürnberg with a cargo of iron ore when it ran aground during a turning maneuver trying to enter the port at Regensburg.  The Fairplay was stuck lying at an angle partially blocking navigation traffic.

Attempts to refloat the Fairplay the following day failed. A pusher tug had arrived on site and was unable to free the barge.  After several failed salvage attempts with the pusher over the following days,  a dredger was dispatched from Rotterdam to lighter part of the cargo of iron ore. Authorities have stated the water level should rise, but may not be enough to aid in refloating the Fairplay. The water police have stated the stranded barge is secured and there is enough room to allow vessel traffic to resume.  No reports of injuries or pollution released.