Singapore’s First Hybrid Bunker Tanker Collides With Bulk Carrier Off Tanah Merah

A Singapore-registered tanker and a Malta-registered bulk carrier collided about 8 km south of Tanah Merah on the morning of September 1, leading to a small fuel spill in nearby waters.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said the incident happened at around 9:25 am and involved the Marine Dynamo, a Singapore-flagged tanker, and the Flag Gangos, a bulk carrier sailing under Malta’s flag. Both ships are stable following the collision.

The master of Marine Dynamo informed authorities that marine gas oil (MGO) used for the ship’s propulsion had leaked from a service tank located above the waterline. This resulted in light oil sheens being sighted near the vessel. MGO, which is similar to diesel, is expected to evaporate and break down naturally in the environment.

According to MPA, one crew member from Marine Dynamo suffered minor bruises and sprains and is being treated onboard. All other crew members from both ships are safe and accounted for.

The Marine Dynamo is Singapore’s first hybrid electric bunker tanker, which is currently chartered by Chevron to supply fuel to its maritime customers in the region.

MPA has deployed patrol craft and spill response craft to assist and disperse the oil sheens. Drones have also been sent out to monitor the situation from the air. At the same time, a navigational broadcast was issued to alert passing ships. Authorities confirmed that the incident has not affected navigational safety.

As a safety measure, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has advised the public to avoid swimming and other water activities at East Coast Park beach until further notice.

The MPA has launched an investigation into the collision between the two vessels.

Reference: MPA

Source: Maritime Shipping News