A container ship capsized at the port of Ambarli in Istanbul, Turkey. Emergency response teams are working to contain the damage and clean up the site, reports Sungreen Logistics.
Improper Handling
The cargo ship capsized early in the morning while being loaded at the dock. Fifteen crew members were on board, with five jumping into the water and the remaining ten rescued by emergency teams. One crew member sustained minor injuries.
Initial investigations suggest that improper cargo handling, potentially leading to an imbalance in the ship’s weight, may have caused the accident. Turkish authorities are investigating the incident to determine the exact cause, including potential issues with weight distribution or cargo securing during loading.
Safety and Standardization
To prevent environmental damage from potential fuel or cargo leaks, port authorities swiftly deployed oil booms around the capsized vessel. While no immediate signs of contamination were observed, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions.
The accident has disrupted port operations at Ambarri, a major Turkish container port. Salvage and recovery efforts are likely to impact cargo efficiency. Experts anticipate that due to the ship’s unstable condition, the clean-up and salvage process could be prolonged.
The vessel, having undergone multiple ownership changes, highlights potential risks associated with the management and maintenance of older vessels. The accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust safety standards and thorough inspections, particularly for aging vessels.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and standardization of port loading and unloading operations. A thorough investigation is crucial to determine the specific causes of the accident and inform future industry improvements.
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Source: Sungreen Logistics