Seafarer Missing After Tanker Runs Aground Near Taiwan’s Taichung Port

Authorities in Taiwan are searching for a 47-year-old Chinese seafarer who went missing after the Panamanian-flagged product tanker “Liquid Gem” ran aground near Taichung Port amid harsh weather conditions on December 7, 2024.

The incident occurred after the vessel lost power and dragged its anchor during a storm.

According to the Taiwan Coast Guard, the vessel, managed by Hong Kong-based Grand Dragon Shipping, began drifting uncontrollably toward the shore late on Saturday night.

Radar surveillance detected the tanker moving at speeds of up to 2 knots, prompting an urgent response when it was half a mile west of Taichung Harbour.

The Liquid Gem, which was anchored offshore awaiting clearance to load diesel, reported a main engine failure as it battled high waves and wind reaching Force 10.

Unable to stop the tanker’s drift, the Coast Guard attempted various rescue methods but decided not to use boats or helicopters due to strong winds and shallow waters.

With the vessel just 30 meters from the shore, the authorities employed a crane from the port to evacuate 12 of the 15 crew members. The remaining three crew members jumped overboard in fear of capsizing.

Two were rescued, while the Chinese crew member remains missing.

The National Airborne Service Corps launched a search operation for the missing seafarer early on December 8. Local media reports identified the missing individual as a 47-year-old Chinese national.

Meanwhile, environmental teams have deployed oil booms and absorbent pads around the grounded tanker to prevent any potential pollution.

Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) reported that the 5,400-dwt vessel, built in 2015 is resting at a 15-degree angle near wave-dissipating blocks.

While the tanker was empty of cargo, it was carrying approximately 110 tons of fuel oil, raising concerns about a potential spill. TIPC said that oil extraction operations were scheduled to begin on December 10 to reduce the risk of contamination.

The vessel had been anchored offshore since late November after undergoing an inspection earlier that month.

The Liquid Gem is a 100-meter-long tanker operated by Grand Dragon Shipping. Records reveal it underwent two port state control inspections in 2023, with deficiencies reported in firefighting equipment, emergency escape devices, and the main engine.

Authorities have described the situation as stable for now, but the search for the missing seafarer continues, alongside efforts to secure the tanker and prevent environmental damage.

Reference: Safety4Sea

Source: Maritime Shipping News