Salvage operations to remove the wreck of the containership MSC Baltic III from Newfoundland’s shores are advancing, with nearly all cargo now off the vessel. Preparations are underway for a critical phase where the ship will be split, allowing the forward section to be pulled ashore for dismantling. The Canadian Coast Guard has noted that favorable weather conditions and the expertise of Resolve Marine, which took over the operation this spring, have contributed to the progress.
Currently, only four containers remain on the ship, which had initially carried 462. The remaining containers are severely damaged and waterlogged, containing rotting materials. Concerns persist regarding hydrogen sulfide levels from the submerged containers, prompting on-site experts to monitor the situation closely. Salvage teams are carefully removing containers and placing them on barges designed to prevent leaks.
Additionally, a contaminated water treatment system is being installed to handle water extracted from the wreck’s holds, part of the ongoing pollution mitigation efforts. The contractor is also preparing to use chains and pullers to facilitate the vessel’s removal, with plans to split it at its damaged section. Although 1,700 metric tons of fuel have been extracted, residual amounts remain, necessitating further cleaning to minimize environmental impact.
Resolve aims to dismantle the bow section this year and remove the deckhouse from the stern. While significant progress has been made, the contractor anticipates that the stern removal may not be completed until 2027, as they strive to maximize operations before winter weather complicates the salvage process.
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