Progress in Salvage Operations to Prevent Pollution from Grounded MSC Baltic III in Newfoundland

Salvage teams in Canada’s Newfoundland are making progress in reducing the pollution risk from the grounded containership MSC Baltic III. The Canadian Coast Guard reported that no pollution has been observed so far from the stranded vessel, but dangers remain. The vessel, which ran aground on February 15 near Corner Brook, is currently resting on the seabed with significant hull damage. Efforts to offload fuel and potential contaminants are underway, with approximately 1.7 million liters of heavy fuel and marine gas oil onboard.

The salvage teams, including T&T Salvage, have faced challenges due to the remote location and harsh winter weather in the area. Despite these obstacles, the tug and barge contracted by MSC were able to load frac tanks and a containment boom onto the vessel. The priority is to safely remove the fuel and other hazardous materials from the ship, with several containers of dangerous goods already removed. Various salvage options, such as loading the fuel onto barges or using an access road onshore, are being considered.

Local media reports indicate that fishermen are hopeful for progress by the end of the month, as the fishing season opens on April 1. The concern lies in access to the area and the ongoing risk of pollution. The salvage efforts are ongoing, with plans for heating the fuel before pumping it from the tanks. Updates from the Canadian Coast Guard and MSC Mediterranean Shipping are expected as the salvage operation continues.

Source