In a dramatic turn of events, the container ship “YM WITNESS” made headlines as it knocked over three large container cranes while attempting to dock at the Evyap Port in Istanbul, Turkey. The incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, March 16th, left one crane operator gravely injured.
Initially, it was reported that no personnel were harmed in the accident. However, subsequent reports from Turkish media revealed that one of the crane operators suffered severe injuries during this unfortunate accident.
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene as the containership approached the port at a steep angle, heading towards the area where four large cranes were positioned. Despite efforts to halt its momentum, the vessel was unable to stop in time, leading to a collision with one of the cranes upon docking. The impact caused two additional cranes to topple over, sending several containers plunging into the harbor waters below. Dockworkers scrambled to safety while the towering cranes collapsed.
The “YM WITNESS” is a Hong Kong-registered vessel with a deadweight tonnage of 145,000. Measuring 368 meters in length and 51 meters in width, it boasts a capacity of 14,000 TEU (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit). The ship, owned by Yang Ming Shipping, was operating along Yang Ming’s MD3 Eastbound Mediterranean route at the time of the incident.
Prompt responses from local police and the fire department ensued, with an investigation swiftly initiated to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the accident.
This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures in maritime operations, especially during docking procedures. The repercussions are significant, with implications for maritime safety protocols and operational procedures.
Source:Fleet Mon
