Grounded Dangerous Goods Vessel Yet To Be Refloated
A containership carrying large quantities of dangerous goods remains lodged on the seabed off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, after running aground last month.
The MSC Baltic III, a 2,478 TEU containership, is still carrying 1.7 million litres of heavy fuel and marine gas oil. Several containers of polymeric beads, which are usually considered a class 9 hazard, were also onboard but have since been removed.
The containership lost all power and was swept ashore in an isolated cove on Newfoundland’s western shore on February 15th. The Canadian Coast Guard have confirmed that recovery efforts have been complicated by the remote location and winter weather, which includes ice in the cove.
After inspecting the 207m long vessel, salvage teams have reported that the hull has experienced significant damage, while water has flooded the cargo holds and engine room. However, no pollution has been observed from the stranded vessel so far.
According to experts, the danger remains, as onboard fuel will likely need to be heated before it can be pumped from the tanks. Salvage options are still being considered, including the construction of a road to facilitate access to the ship
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