Incident Overview: Panamanian Oil Tanker Grounds Near Taichung Port
A search operation is currently underway for a Chinese crew member after the Panamanian oil tanker Liquid Gen ran aground off the Port of Taichung on Saturday, according to the Taichung Harbor Police Department. The vessel, which was carrying 15 crew members, encountered a distressing situation when its anchor dragged, causing it to drift uncontrollably before it came to rest 500 meters from shore.
Details of the Accident
The Liquid Gen, a 4,240 gross-ton oil tanker measuring 99.8 meters in length, was anchored near the Port of Taichung in Taiwan, awaiting clearance to dock and load diesel fuel. On the night of the incident, strong winds and waves led to the tanker’s anchor dragging, pushing it toward the breakwater where it grounded at a 15-degree angle.
The crew of 15 initially faced a dire situation, with the vessel listing and fears of it capsizing. In response, 12 of the 15 crew members were airlifted to safety, while three others jumped overboard. Among those who jumped, a Taiwanese and a Chinese national were rescued without serious injuries. However, a 47-year-old Chinese crew member remains missing, and authorities have deployed the National Airborne Service Corps to search for the missing individual.
Safety Measures and Environmental Concerns
Fortunately, despite the grounding, the vessel is not currently considered an immediate environmental threat. Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) has confirmed that the tanker is grounded near wave-dissipating blocks, minimizing the risk of further damage to the ship. However, precautionary measures are still being taken. The TIPC has deployed oil containment booms and absorbent pads around the tanker to prevent potential oil spills in case the vessel sustains damage during its grounding.
As of now, the tanker is only carrying 110 tons of operational fuel, with most of its fuel tanks already emptied. Nonetheless, authorities remain vigilant about the potential for environmental hazards as the situation develops.
Timeline and Background of the Tanker’s Operations
The Liquid Gen had entered Taichung Port for inspection in mid-November. Since late November, the vessel had been anchored offshore, awaiting clearance to dock and begin loading diesel fuel. The grounding occurred while the tanker was still waiting to fulfill its operational task.
Current Status and Search Operation
The missing crew member is a 47-year-old Chinese national, and a dedicated search operation by the National Airborne Service Corps continues. While the ship’s grounding is being managed safely to avoid environmental damage, the rescue team is focused on locating the missing crew member.
Table: Incident Details and Timeline
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 30 – Dec 6, 2024 | Ship Anchored Offshore | The tanker anchored off Taichung Port, awaiting clearance. |
| Dec 7, 2024 | Anchor Dragging and Drifting | The anchor dragged, causing the tanker to drift. |
| Dec 7, 2024 (Night) | Ship Grounds and List | The tanker ran aground 500 meters from shore, listing at 15°. |
| Dec 7, 2024 | Rescue Operation | 12 crew members airlifted to safety, 3 jumped overboard. |
| Dec 8, 2024 | Search for Missing Crew Member | Authorities continue search for missing Chinese crew member. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What caused the oil tanker to run aground near Taichung Port?
A1: The tanker’s anchor dragged in rough conditions, causing it to drift uncontrollably toward the breakwater and eventually ground 500 meters offshore.
Q2: How many crew members were aboard the Liquid Gen?
A2: The Liquid Gen had a crew of 15 members on board at the time of the incident.
Q3: Is there a risk of an oil spill from the grounded tanker?
A3: While the tanker is grounded near wave-dissipating blocks, TIPC has deployed oil containment booms and absorbent pads as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential oil spills.
Q4: What steps are being taken to find the missing crew member?
A4: The National Airborne Service Corps has been deployed to search for the missing 47-year-old Chinese crew member, who was among the three crew members who jumped overboard.
Q5: What is the current fuel situation aboard the tanker?
A5: Most of the fuel tanks on the tanker have been emptied, leaving only 110 tons of operational fuel remaining on board.
Conclusion: A Situation Under Control
While the incident involving the Panamanian oil tanker Liquid Gen off the Port of Taichung has raised significant concerns, the situation is under control. Authorities are focusing on locating the missing crew member and preventing any environmental damage. With the ship grounded near wave-dissipating blocks, there is currently no immediate risk to public safety, although precautions remain in place.
