BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, OCTOBER 11TH 2010 (CUOPM) – A Turkish-flagged oil tanker, Azra-S remains grounded in shallow waters in the St. Kitts harbour Monday as an investigation has begun by local marine officials into the mishap one week ago.
Director of Maritime Affiars, Mr. McClean Hobson said Monday that two salvage companies are to submit contracts to the owners for the salvaging of the 344-tanher with 18000 barrels of diesel onboard.
“We are expecting a contract to be awarded. It is not that easy to just pull off the vessel where it is lodged on the seabed. It is very technical procedure,” Hobson told the Communications Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister (CUOPM).
He also disclosed that the Department of Maritime Affiars has commenced an investigation into the mishap in compliance with the Casualty Investigation Code of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
“There is no spillage and the marine environment in the area remains intact,” said Hobson.
The Azra-S was built in 2007 and has two hulls to help safeguard its cargo. If the outer hull is breached, the inner one keeps the oil in place.
