The NTSB is investigating the power outage on the container ship dali and its collision with the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge. Initial findings show electrical issues caused the outage, leading to a fatal bridge collapse. Investigators are examining the ship’s power system to determine the cause and prevent future accidents.
The Dali cargo ship, involved in the Baltimore bridge disaster, is finally on its way to Norfolk, Virginia for repairs. After months of confinement, eight crew members have returned home, while two others have been cleared to go overseas. Four crew members remain on board, with seven stranded in the US indefinitely. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
The dispute between Damen and the Romanian government over the Mangalia shipyard escalated as insolvency proceedings were initiated. Damen, which took control in 2018, faced challenges due to industry downturn and government interference. The court aims to define a recovery strategy for the yard, once a thriving joint venture with Daewoo, now struggling in a competitive market.
The Red Sea conflict has disrupted international shipping routes, leading to longer transit times and rerouting of major shipping companies. The Suez Canal has seen an 80% drop in traffic, forcing carriers to use alternative routes, increasing transit times by 10-14 days. Shippers are advised to plan accordingly for the high-demand retail season.
Salvors successfully refloated the Interislander ferry Aratere after it ran aground in Titoki Bay, New Zealand. The 18,000 GT ferry had departed Picton on a routine run but went aground shortly after leaving. No flooding or pollution occurred, and the crew and divers were unharmed. The incident raises concerns about the maintenance of KiwiRail’s ferry fleet.
Seafarers are voicing concerns about the mental health implications of decarbonisation and the fear of being blamed if things go wrong. A survey by ISWAN and the Shipowners’ Club reveals the hidden costs of the green transition, showing a significant impact on job satisfaction. The industry must address these issues and involve seafarers in the transition towards zero carbon.
Prosecutors in Piraeus are seeking the arrest of a luxurious superyacht and its 13 passengers and crew suspected of starting a wildfire on a resort island. The intense heat wave in Greece has heightened fire risks, leading to a ban on activities that could spark wildfires. The crew of the superyacht could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
With the Kolkata Dock System’s second dock, it can now manage 87.5 million tonnes of cargo annually. The Haldia Dock Complex achieved a record 49.54 MT throughput, surpassing the previous 48,608 MT in FY 2023. Users loading dry bulk like coal and iron ore get up to Rs 100 off per tonne, reducing costs. Syamprasad Mookerjee Port hit a record 66.4 MT in FY 2024 and aims for 70 MT in FY 2025.
The Vadhavan Port project will be undertaken under the PPP mode, with a total cost of Rs. 17,709 crore for land reclamation and dredging, and Rs. 38,976 crore for other infrastructure works. This marks a shift from the previous plan of EPC funding by JNPA and MMB, with private operators covering the remaining Rs. 37,244 crore.
U.S. forces have destroyed three unmanned surface vessels of the Iran-backed Houthi militia in the Red Sea, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). In a separate incident, the Houthis fired anti-ship ballistic missiles into the Gulf of Aden. CENTCOM denied claims of an attack on the aircraft carrier.
Seventy-eight Filipino seafarers have refused sailing through high-risk areas like the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea due to increased attacks. The Department of Migrant Workers is working with stakeholders to ensure compliance with this right. Seafarers who opt out will be repatriated, emphasizing their safety and protection from discrimination. Recent events highlight the dangers faced by these seafarers.
On June 23, 2024, a merchant ship was struck by a drone in the Red Sea, 65 nautical miles west of Hodeidah, Yemen, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UK MTO). The ship confirmed all crew members are safe. This incident follows a claim by Yemen-based Houthis of hitting a commercial vessel with a ballistic missile after visiting an Israeli port.
India and Bangladesh strengthened their collaboration in various new areas, signing agreements during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The focus was on maritime, blue economy, digital, green partnership, and railway connectivity. Both leaders emphasized the importance of future cooperation in green, digital, blue economy, and space sectors, highlighting benefits for youth.
Former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, Admiral Stavridis criticized the Western response to the Red Sea conflict as weak and defensive. The ongoing attacks by Iran-backed Houthis have disrupted global shipping, leading to increased costs and bottlenecks in supply chains. Stavridis suggests a strategic offensive plan to neutralize the threat posed by the Houthis and their backers in Iran.
Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais unveiled the book ‘Gateways to the Sea – Historic Ports and Docks of Mumbai Region’ at Raj Bhavan. Published by the Government of India, the book delves into the maritime history of Mumbai, featuring contributions from experts in various fields. With 18 chapters, it offers a comprehensive look at the region’s rich maritime heritage.
