It was quick response by the administration that prevented a tragic situation developing had the two bulkers with hazardous goods that had got involved in accidents recently leaked out its dangerous cargo. The government has learnt its lesson and brought into place a response mechanism to deal with any contingencies.
Accidents occurring on the Indian coast have been a cause of concern for the maritime fraternity and the government. With 50% of dry bulkers moving hazardous cargo and an increasing number of tankers with dangerous / explosive material calling at Indian ports, the chances of a tragic incident occurring has been weighing heavily on the minds of the administration and the seafaring community.
Taking on a proactive approach, The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) in the first instance organized a conference last weekend highlighting on the importance of adhering to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods IMDG code. The focus was on “Handling of Hazardous Substances at Sea and Port”. CMMI has plans to conduct similar events at different centers of India.
The recent accidents involving “Asian Forest” and “Black Rose” reported to be having over 450 tons and 900 tons hazardous noxious substances respectively had been a matter of serious concern for the administration and the concerned port. “Take for example the LPG carrier ‘Kew Bridge’, loaded with 8000 tonnes of liquefied butane that ran aground at Ratnagiri, India,” stated Capt Deepak Kapoor, Nautical Surveyor cum Deputy Director General (Technical), Government of India. “The main concern was to reduce all safety risks on board, namely a breakdown of the cooling systems causing the temperature of the cargo to rise and this was a danger to the vessel, crew, marine life and property.”
Presentations made focused on various types of dangers associated with the carriage of hazardous cargoes which were highlighted with case studies. Kew Bridge it was pointed out had cargo of
Liquefied petroleum gas which is heavier than air. If spilt it could spread over a radius of 20 km. The consequences of a tragic situation occurring was unthinkable. On the other hand oil spillage taking place floats on water and on being treated it goes down. But if it were to catch fire it could explode and can result in untold damage. There are about 6,000 to 7,000 hazardous products according to the IMDG code.
The port authorities now have a proper response mechanism in place. There are nodal agencies which are monitoring the response mechanism. The Directorate General of Shipping has asked the port authorities to maintain a fleet of tugs ready at hand when such vessels with hazardous cargo are allowed to berth. The terminals in ports have also been advised to put in place adequate response mechanism to deal with any contingencies occurring from such ships. India has yet to ratify the IMDG convention amendment.