Investigation launched after two ships collide near Karachi port

ISLAMABAD:

The government launched an investigation on Friday after two foreign ships collided near the entrance to Karachi’s port on Thursday evening, while authorities confirmed that no casualties were reported in the incident.

Karachi Port Trust (KPT) maritime teams carried out a rescue operation after the collision near the Fairway Buoy outside Karachi Port.

“The collision occurred between 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on May 28 near the Fairway Buoy outside Karachi Port,” the KPT said in a statement.

Officials said the Liberian-flagged container ship MV Popo, which had departed from berths 8 and 9, collided with the CS NIWA/MV NIWA, a UAE-flagged cable repair vessel.

According to port authorities, the MV NIWA was waiting to take on a pilot and was slowly heading towards the channel at the time of the incident.

Officials said some containers from the MV Popo fell into the sea following the collision. However, no loss of life or injuries were reported.

Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry ordered an investigation into the incident to determine the causes.

He said the accident occurred outside the jurisdictional limits of Karachi Port and he had sought a report on it.

“I have requested a report on the maritime accident,” the minister said while praising port staff for their quick response and efficient management.

“No casualties or injuries were reported during the collision between the two foreign vessels,” he added.

The minister said the accident was due to the negligence of the captains of the two ships.

“The affected cable vessel was brought safely to port with the assistance of KPT tugboats,” he said.

Chaudhry said investigations were underway to determine the causes of the accident and reiterated that the government and relevant institutions remained fully active to ensure maritime safety.