Captain of the Solong charged after a fatal North Sea collision!

Captain of the Solong charged after a fatal North Sea collision!

Nordsee, Großbritannien - Last Monday, a dramatic Kollision between the container ship "Solong" and the tanker "Stena Immaculate" North Sea coast. The British coast guard initially gave the all -clear after no indications of dirt on the water surface had been determined. However, there was a fire on both ships on site, with the tanker invited 35 million liters of aircraft fuel. According to the first reports, one of 16 tanks of the tanker was damaged, which increased the concern for environmental damage.

The captain of the "Solong", a 59-year-old Russian citizen, was charged with grossly negligent killing. One of the tragic consequences of the collision is the disappearance of a crew member, which was declared dead by the British public prosecutor. However, a total of 36 crew members of both ships could be safely brought ashore. The investigation into the exact course of the collision, the reason of which is currently unclear.

environmental risks and initial assessments

According to the US shipping company Crowley, the kerosic dampers evaporated during the fires. The "Solong" has some smaller fires in a safe position, while the tanker no longer burns. The sailor, who died in the accident, is a sad confirmation of the dangers associated with shipping. British investigators have so far excluded a deliberate collision.

Reporting on this incident illustrates the criticism of security in maritime traffic. Shipping is considered a more environmentally friendly mode of transport compared to country traffic, but despite the progress in maritime environmental protection, the risk of collisions and its consequences remains high. The Federal Government has even set itself the goal of improving the security and environmental compatibility of shipping to ensure the protection of the oceans.

international regulation and protective measures

With over 95 % of the intercontinental exchange of goods, which is handled by sea shipping, the protection of the oceans is of great importance. The International Sea Shipping Organization (IMO) develops regulations to protect the oceans. This commitment is supported by measures such as Marpol Convention, which defines specific regulations to prevent pollution from shipping. In Germany, essential emission limit values ​​for shipping fuels have already been revised to further promote environmental protection.

The collision between the "Solong" and the "Stena Immaculate" is an alarming example of the challenges with which shipping is confronted. While the salvage teams can currently look after both ships, the attention is paid to the court appointment for the captain and the ongoing investigation.