Image:Fleet Mon.
In a dramatic maritime incident, two laden bulk container carriers, the “MIRABELLA” and the “OMEGA,” collided on the Yangtze River. The clash occurred approximately 15 nautical miles off the Yangtze River Estuary on Tuesday, January 23rd, leaving both vessels compromised. Despite the gravity of the situation, all crew members have been reported safe.
The vessels involved in this maritime mishap include the “MIRABELLA,” a 1997-built 46,600 deadweight tonnage (dwt) ship registered in the Cook Islands and owned by Safe Sea Services of Lebanon. The second vessel, “OMEGA,” a 2004-built 48,800 dwt ship, is registered in the Marshall Islands and owned by Turkey-based Gamma Shipping. The OMEGA, unfortunately, sustained severe damage with a breach in its number 5 cargo hold, resulting in water ingress. Notably, the OMEGA was carrying a substantial load of 47,000 tons of steel billets at the time of the collision.
According to assessments by cargo claims experts, the OMEGA is currently at risk of sinking. In response to the perilous situation, all 21 crew members on board the OMEGA were safely evacuated. The MIRABELLA, en route from Tuticorin, India, to Taicang, China, with 45,000 tons of iron ore, also suffered damages and partial flooding. However, the MIRABELLA skillfully anchored in safe waters following the incident.
An industry expert highlighted the looming threat, stating, “The OMEGA is in danger of sinking,” adding a layer of urgency to the already critical situation. The collision has brought attention to the vulnerability of maritime assets and the potential environmental impact, given the nature of the cargo involved.
Both vessels reportedly have Protection and Indemnity cover from the fixed premium market, indicating a level of financial protection amid the unfolding crisis. As the maritime community closely monitors the developments, the aftermath of this collision raises pertinent questions about vessel safety and the swift response required to avert further environmental and economic repercussions.
Source:Raghib Raza-Fleet Mon.
