Vessel carrying ammonium nitrate suffers damage

Due to the hazardous nature of the cargo and the extent of the hull damage, it is impractical to carry out the necessary repairs close to Tromsø. Therefore, the ship has been granted temporary permission to be towed to a more suitable anchorage where repairs can be performed safely.

The vessel was carrying ammonium nitrate, a chemical compound that, while stable under normal conditions, can be hazardous if exposed to fire or other external influences. Due to the nature of this cargo and the extent of the damage, it is not feasible to carry out necessary repairs close to Tromsø. As a result, the ship has been granted temporary permission to be towed to a more suitable anchorage.

A coordinated effort involving several agencies is underway to manage the situation effectively. This includes the Norwegian Coastal Administration, Tromsø Port Authority, the Police, and the Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning (DSB). These authorities are working together to ensure the ship is safely relocated and that necessary repairs can be performed.

“The focus is on ensuring the safe and secure relocation of the vessel, with clear guidelines for moving and anchoring it while awaiting repairs,” said Police Station Chief Anita Hermandsen of Troms Police District. Tugboats are expected to arrive in Tromsø on Tuesday afternoon or evening, and the towing operation will proceed as soon as possible. The exact anchorage point is still under consideration, with several options being evaluated.

According to Tromsø Port Authority, while the ship is large, it is manageable compared to other vessels handled regularly in the port. The operation to move the ship will follow routine procedures, with tugboats assisting in the process. The ship’s captain, in cooperation with the pilot, will plan the departure from the quay, with tugboats typically holding the ship in place while lines are retrieved.