Image:Jose Baja JR.
A large vessel, the MV Ruby, loaded with a staggering 20,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, remains stranded off the coast of Norway, raising serious concerns about potential safety risks. The Maltese-flagged ship, which has reportedly sustained cracks to its hull and a damaged rudder, is currently stuck in a precarious situation in Norwegian waters, with authorities keeping a close watch.
Ammonium nitrate, a highly volatile substance, has been at the center of catastrophic explosions in the past, most notably the tragic Beirut blast in 2020. That incident involved just 2,700 tonnes of the chemical, which devastated a large portion of the Lebanese capital and caused extensive damage and loss of life. In comparison, the MV Ruby is carrying nearly seven times that amount, making this a particularly alarming situation for maritime safety officials and local authorities.
The MV Ruby’s journey took a troubling turn shortly after departing the port of Kandalaksha, Russia, on August 22. The vessel reportedly ran aground, resulting in damage to its hull and rudder. As a result, it has been unable to continue its intended course to Lithuania, where it was scheduled to undergo repairs. This unexpected development has caused the vessel to remain in a holding pattern off the southern coast of Norway, west of Denmark, with limited options available.
MarineTraffic, a well-known ship-tracking website, still shows the MV Ruby in the same position, unable to navigate further due to the extensive damage. In light of this situation, Scandinavian authorities have refused the ship’s requests to enter various ports, citing the substantial risk posed by the damaged vessel and its explosive cargo. The potential consequences of allowing a ship carrying such a volatile load into harbor are simply too great, prompting authorities to exercise extreme caution.
Danish authorities have taken an especially strict stance, demanding that the MV Ruby be accompanied by a pilot and tugboat escort due to the hazardous nature of its cargo. A pilot, trained to navigate specific stretches of water, is deemed essential to ensure the safe passage of the vessel, particularly in the challenging waters of the Baltic Sea. However, with the vessel’s current state and the reluctance of neighboring ports to accept it, the MV Ruby remains stuck in limbo.
As the situation unfolds, the potential risk of an environmental disaster looms over the region. The cracks in the hull and the compromised rudder present immediate dangers, especially given the volatile nature of the 20,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate on board. Any mishap could have devastating consequences, prompting authorities to closely monitor the vessel’s condition and its positioning in Norwegian waters.
The story of the MV Ruby is a stark reminder of the risks inherent in transporting hazardous materials across international waters. While maritime logistics play a vital role in global trade, the dangers associated with moving such dangerous cargo require the utmost vigilance and precaution.
