EMEA News
Bunker Spill Keeps Kiel Canal Closed
Monday's Bunker spill on Germany's Kiel Canal will keep the waterway completely closed until at least late Wednesday, ICIS reports.
Diesel was still said to be leaking from the general cargo carrier MS Siderfly after she collided with LPG tanker MS Ivory Coral, and tugs are being used to keep the carrier parallel with the side of the canal.
"We hope the Kiel Canal may be able to partially re-open late morning tomorrow," says Ulrike Windhoevel, spokeswoman for Germany's Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (Havariekommando).
"However, I must emphasise that no decision will be taken until [Wednesday October 30] as we are waiting to see how pumping operations progress and if divers will be able to get a closer look at the damage to the hull.
"Pumps and equipment are at the scene and water is being pumped from the flooded engine room and diesel is being pumped from the tanks to minimise the risk of any other fuel getting into the water. There is also an all-response vessel that is removing diesel from the canal surface.
"We have arranged a meeting for 7.30am on Wednesday where we hope to be able to give a more accurate timeline for the partial reopening of the canal."
The Kiel Canal is the busiest artificial waterway in the world and handles almost 100 vessels a day.
