On the morning of October 10, the 207 meter long, 33438 dwt self-unloader bulk carrier John J. Boland (IMO: 7318901) became disabled on Lake St. Clair near the entrance to the Detroit River. The John J. Boland was headed to Toledo from Sault Ste. Marie when it suffered engine problems. The bulk carrier dropped anchor until tugs could be sent to assist. The tugs, 19 meter long Minnesota (MMSI: 368343820) and 18 meter long Ohio (MMSI: 368067780), arrived on site a short time later and took the bulk carrier under tow. The vessels proceeded downbound to Detroit. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
On the night of April 17, the 32 meter long towboat Papu Mar (MMSI: 755103015) sank on the Río de la Plata Punta in the Indio Channel near the Banco Chico reef off Argentina. The Papu Mar was pushing the barge 240-4 carrying 140 containers when the towboat suffered uncontrolled water ingress caused by stormy conditions. The crew was unable to control the flooding and the towboat partially sank by the stern. The nine crew on board were able to evacuate the vessel and seek refuge on the barge. Authorities would later rescue the crew and safely transferred them to Port of La Plata where they would receive medical treatment.
Photo: comexonline.com.ar
The RN Salvamento dispatched the tug Ona Don Lorenzo (IMO: 9328388) to assess the situation. The tug was found the Papu Mar had completely sunk, but still connected to the barge. The barge would later be uncoupled and towed to Buenos Aires. Authorities were monitoring the sunken towboat for any potential release of pollution. Reports state the vessel owners were arranging the refloating of the Papu Mar. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
Photo: comexonline.com.ar
Photo: comexonline.com.ar
Photo: comexonline.com.ar
Photo: comexonline.com.ar
Photo: portalportuario.cl
Photo: paraguayfluvial.com
Photo: paraguayfluvial.com
Photo: x.com
Local news reports state the towboat had possibly made an error in judgement to cross the river during the storm. There are suggestions that the rudder room or excessive listing may have allowed water to flood the vessel.
On the early morning hours of March 17, the 30 meter long, 503 dwt tug Provincia del Azuay (IMO: 9654933) sank in the Gulf of Mexico at its berth in Veracruz, Mexico. The tug suffered uncontrolled water ingress during the night. The two crew onboard were unaware until an audible alarm was sounded which left the crew just minutes to evacuate the vessel. The Provincia del Azuay continued to sink until only part of the wheelhouse and mast was still above water.
Authorities, port employees and local fire fighters arrived on scene and began measures to contain any pollution that might be released. Booms and absorbent pads were placed around the wreck to contain any oil pollution. Reports state the tug had only a small amount of reserve fuel in its tanks at the time of the incident. Authorities have stated there will be an investigation into the incident. Cranes will be brought in to lift and refloat the Provincia del Azuay. No reports of injuries.
