On the evening July 18, a cargo vessel allided with a moored self-propelled barge on the Rhine near Friemersheim, Germany. The cargo vessel struck the stern and tore a meter gash above the waterline into the hull of the barge. No one was injured in the incident. The water police has launched an investigation. The self-propelled barge was allowed to proceed to a shipyard for repairs. The cargo vessel was allowed to proceed on its journey on the Rhine.
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.
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.
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.
