The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is investigating a collision between a car carrier vessel and an inactive tugboat which took place at the end of last week.

According to SAMSA the vessel CSCC ASIA, operated by Hoegh Autoliners, collided with the inactive tug Inyalazi at about 9am on Friday, 13 April 2018 at R shed at the Port of Durban.

Captain Saroor Ali, SAMSA Regional Manager (Eastern Region) says SAMSA is conducting an investigation to ascertain the factors contributing to the accident. “Once completed recommendations will be provided to avoid any further reoccurrences. The process is guided by the South African Merchant Shipping Act,” Ali explained.

No injuries were reported as there were no employees on board the tug Inyalazi. Damage occurred to the quayside and the tug sustained a hole on its starboard side which resulted in ingress of water into the tug. Tug Umbilo was deployed to the site with a salvage pump to remove the water from Inyalazi.

No severe damage

SAMSA surveyors were on site to closely assess the extent of the damage. Divers were deployed for the purposes of plugging water from entering the tug.

The car carrier vessel was able to commence operation and the tug Inyalazi was moved to the dry dock for repairs.

Ali said the 200-metre long Bahama registered vessel did not suffer severe damage and left the harbour on Saturday April 14.

“There were some abrasions on its starboard side, but no breach of the hull,” he concluded.