Shipwreck Log

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.