Following the collision of two transport ships off the coast of Gibraltar, the recovery operations to protect the environment must be planned and executed with the utmost care. The main priorities are to minimize the risk of pollution and to protect the coasts of Gibraltar and neighboring countries. No other hydraulic substances or fuels have escaped recently.
It remains unclear why the two ships collided on Monday. An investigation has already been launched to determine the cause.
Authorities had feared oil spills
A 178-metre bulk carrier collided with a liquefied gas carrier off the east coast of Gibraltar, causing a leak. The “OS 35” flying the flag of Tuvalu was therefore grounded in shallow water. On Wednesday, the “OS 35” lay with its bow about 700 meters from the beach of Catalan Bay in calm seas.
215 tons of heavy fuel oil, 250 tons of diesel and 27 tons of lube oil loaded
According to the latest official information, the ship has 215 tons of heavy fuel oil, 250 tons of diesel and 27 tons of lube oil in the tanks. Divers discovered a ten by four meter hole in the hull below the waterline. Floating oil trees were therefore constructed between the ailing ship and the beach as a precaution. According to the government, the 24-person crew was still on board on Wednesday. She is doing well and has been given food and drink.
The steel-loaded “OS 35” was on its way to the Dutch port of Vlissingen when it rammed into the liquid gas tanker “Adam LNG” at anchor on Monday afternoon. The 289-meter gas tanker flying the flag of the Marshall Islands was largely undamaged in the collision.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
