Managers of Ocean Network Express’s ONE Apus, which lost 1816 containers overboard when it encountered severe weather on November 30, have confirmed the contents of the estimated 64 containers carrying dangerous goods (DG) that were among the 1816.
Fifty four of the DG containers are carrying fireworks, a further eight batteries, and two liquid ethanol.
A notification has been sent to the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) in Honolulu and Guam with maritime navigational warnings subsequently broadcast. “We are continuing to liaise with the JRCC in Honolulu, which has advised that there have not been sightings of any containers as yet,” said Chidori Ship Holding LLC as owners and NYK Shipmanagement as managers.
The vessel is proceeding cautiously to the port of Kobe, Japan and is expected to arrive today, December 8, subject to all operations proceeding as planned, according to the most recent statement.
“The priority remains on getting the ship and crew safely to port. Once berthed, it’s expected to take some time to offload the dislodged containers that remain on board. Then, a thorough assessment will be made on the exact number and type of containers that have been lost or damaged.
“Once the ONE Apus is in port and deemed safe, a full investigation will be conducted into this incident in conjunction with the flag state and the relevant maritime authorities.”
The vessel was en route from Yantian, China to Long Beach, USA when it encountered gale-force winds and large swells around 1 600 nautical miles northwest of Hawaii, USA. The severe weather conditions caused the vessel to roll heavily causing the containers to dislodge and fall into the ocean.
