Diesel Tanker Collides with Bulk Carrier at Chittagong Port; No Oil Leakage Reported
Photo Collected
A collision between a tanker carrying approximately 33,000 metric tons of diesel and a stationary bulk carrier occurred in the waters off Chittagong Port on Friday. While the incident caused structural damage to the tanker, authorities confirmed that no oil has spilled into the sea and the cargo tanks remain intact.
The accident occurred at 12:25 p.m. when the tanker, MT Sea Spike, struck the anchored bulk carrier, MV Sun Shine. According to a preliminary assessment by the Chittagong Port Authority, the collision was likely caused by strong currents that prevented the tanker from maintaining control. A formal investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.
The collision resulted in a hole approximately one square meter wide on the port side of the MT Sea Spike’s engine room. Although water ingress caused a temporary power failure on board, the vessel’s radio communication system was maintained using emergency batteries. The ship has since been stabilized with two anchors, and officials expressed confidence that it will remain afloat during low tide.
Chittagong Port Authority Secretary Syed Refayet Hamim stated that the Bangladesh Navy and the Coast Guard have joined port officials to assist in recovery operations. The port’s tugboat, Kandari-8, is currently stationed at the site. The ship’s agent, Pride Shipping, has been directed to expedite the discharge of the diesel cargo, and a salvage firm has been contracted to oversee hull repairs and recovery efforts.
Port authorities remain in constant communication with the vessel’s captain. Operations at the port channel are continuing as normal, with officials confirming that the incident has caused no disruption to maritime traffic.
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