[ 23 FEBRUARY, 2009 ]

JEBEL ALI LPG TANKER AND CONTAINER SHIP COLLISION

On 10th February 2009 a Chemical Tanker (The Kashmir) and a small container ship collided in the shipping channel outside of Jebel Ali Port, Dubai. The weather was calm and clear and the pilots were experienced. Two of the Kashmir’s tanks carrying LPG were ruptured and, as the product seeped out of the vessel a massive fireball was seen for miles around.

The LSES Response base is located in Jebel Ali and was immediately placed on standby. However, on this occasion, the port dealt with the fire quickly and efficiently and no oil leaked from either of the stricken vessels. The Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s coastline (which supports some of the world’s most expensive and luxurious hotels and resorts) had the most fortunate escape from a very serious marine pollution incident. On a different day the Chemical Tanker could have been an Oil Tanker and the devastation which could have occurred from a major oil pollution incident could have been very significant indeed.

The Jebel Ali collision is an excellent reminder as to why LSES is in existence: Accidents at sea do occur, the stakes are high with massive volumes of cargo, bunkers and product being carried. Moreover, the number and frequency of accidents will continue to rise and become more common as our seaways get evermore congested.

LSES provides immediate expert assistance both with equipment rental and sales prior to and during an emergency response. However, more importantly, LSES can provide the consultancy, training and exercises that will hopefully enable your company to avoid such disasters. For further information on the LSES services please contact: info@lamorswire.com or call: +971 4 321 2022; in the event of an emergency you may also call the 24 / 7 emergency response number: +971 50 6564 900.