- A 135-meter cargo vessel ran aground just five meters from a house in Byneset, Norway, narrowly avoiding a disaster.
- Investigators found the ship’s second mate fell asleep on duty, causing the vessel to veer off course.
- This is the ship’s third grounding in as many years, prompting scrutiny of its navigational practices.
A dramatic maritime mishap occurred early Thursday in the Byneset area near Trondheim, Norway, when a large cargo ship ran aground mere meters from a residential home, reports BBC.
Near Miss in the Backyard
Around 5:30 a.m., the 135-meter vessel veered off course and plowed into land just behind a home, stopping only about five meters from the house itself. The homeowner was awakened by a neighbor and was shocked to find the ship’s bow nearly in his backyard. Although the impact caused a minor landslide, no injuries or environmental damage were reported.
Cause of the Crash
The ship was crewed by 16 individuals from multiple countries. An investigation was launched and early findings point to the second mate falling asleep during his watch as the primary cause. Authorities have ruled out both mechanical failure and alcohol involvement.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
Attempts to refloat the ship have been unsuccessful so far. Salvage crews are monitoring tide levels in hopes of making a successful attempt. Geotechnical evaluations are underway to ensure the vessel can be removed safely, without further damage to the surrounding area.
A Troubled History
This is the third time the same ship has run aground in recent years, with previous incidents occurring in 2023 and 2024. The repeated accidents have raised concerns about operational oversight and navigational practices.
Officials continue to investigate and stress the importance of strict maritime safety protocols to avoid future incidents.
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Source: BBC
