CHATTOGRAM, Aug 14, (V7N) - A bulk carrier that was anchored at Chattogram port collided with an oil tanker transporting approximately 33 thousand metric tons of diesel.
Following the accident the situation has been brought under control. Chattogram Port Authority reported that the cargo tanks of the oil tanker MTC Spike remained intact during the incident, and no oil was discharged from the vessel.
The accident happened at around 12:25 PM today when MTC Spike struck the anchored bulk carrier MV Sunshine.
Initially, it was indicated that strong currents made it difficult to maintain control of the tanker. Further details will be revealed after an investigation into the cause of the incident, port officials said.
Syed Refaet Hamim, Secretary of CPA said following the collision, water entered the tanker's engine room through a crack measuring approximately one square meter.
This resulted in a temporary blackout or power failure. Later, the ship's VHF communication system was maintained with the assistance of emergency batteries. To stabilize the vessel, 10 shackles of chains from two anchors were released.
Based on the tide calculations, the vessel is expected to remain securely afloat even during low tide. In the meantime, the Chattogram Port Authority, along with the Bangladesh Navy and Coast Guard, initiated rescue operations immediately following the incident.
The port authority's tugboat, Kandari-8, has arrived at the scene and is actively engaged in rescue and support efforts. The port authority has directed the shipping agent, Pride Shipping, to expedite the unloading of fuel oil from the tanker.
Besides, the salvage company has been instructed to implement necessary measures to repair the ship's damages and facilitate its recovery.
Continuous VHF communication is being maintained with the ship's captain around the clock. The situation is currently under full control, and ship traffic in the port channel remains normal.
