Bulk product carrier and BW Group affiliate, Hafnia, is making urgent arrangements to offload cargo from its fire-damaged vessel, the Hafnia Nile, which was involved in a collision with another tanker off the coast of Singapore last week.
The incident occurred on July 19, approximately 55 kilometres north-east of Pedra Branca, when the Singapore-flagged Hafnia Nile collided with the Sao Tome and Principe-flagged Ceres I, resulting in a fire on both vessels.
The Hafnia Nile was carrying around 300 000 barrels of naphtha, a key petrochemical feedstock purchased by Japanese refiner Eneos and considered a dangerous substance due to its flammable nature and potential health hazards.
Hafnia is currently in discussions with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to identify a safe location for the transfer of the naphtha.
The MPA has confirmed that it is collaborating with Hafnia to facilitate the transfer and to develop a towage plan for the damaged tanker, which sustained significant harm to its engine room.
Inspections conducted by experts revealed a light oil sheen emanating from the engine room, prompting immediate action to contain any potential environmental impact.
A salvage team has been deployed to the site, and equipment has been transferred from nearby tugs to manage the situation.
As the investigation into the collision continues, both Singaporean and Malaysian authorities are working closely with Hafnia to ensure the safe recovery of the cargo and to assess the necessary repairs for the Hafnia Nile, which is currently tethered to tugs in Malaysian water.
