Grounding Incident in Taiwan Involves Bulker and Rescue Tug
On January 1, 2023, the bulk carrier *CSE Prosperity Express* ran aground while approaching Hualien port on Taiwan’s eastern coast. The vessel, weighing 28,350 deadweight tons and operated by China Steel, was en route from Thailand when it lost power due to strong northeasterly monsoon winds. At the time, it was waiting for a pilot near the port entrance. The ship, built in 2006 and registered in Panama, has a crew of 17, including 12 Taiwanese and five Filipino members.
As the *CSE Prosperity Express* struggled to regain control, it called for assistance. The Hualien Port Authority dispatched the tug *Taiwangang 13205* to aid the grounded vessel. However, the rescue tug encountered its own difficulties. While attempting to assist, it became entangled in the lines of the bulker and was subsequently driven onto the shoreline, leaving its five crew members stranded.
Rescue Operations Complicated by Severe Weather
In response to the situation, the Taiwan Coast Guard and local rescue services were mobilized. However, adverse weather conditions and high surf made it impossible for them to reach the stranded tug. Consequently, the Taiwan Air Service Corps was called in to provide aerial support. A helicopter was dispatched to conduct an aerial survey of the scene.
Rescue Operation Underway for Injured Tugboat Crew Member off Hualien
During the operation, the helicopter successfully airlifted the five crew members from the *Taiwangang 13205*. One crew member sustained a severe head laceration and was losing consciousness, necessitating immediate medical attention. The helicopter transferred the injured crew member and the others to waiting ambulances for further treatment.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Taiwan authorities reported that the *CSE Prosperity Express* and its crew were not in immediate danger. A larger tug was dispatched from Keelung Port to assist the bulker, with expectations that it would arrive later in the evening.
This incident highlights the complexities of maritime operations in adverse weather conditions and the importance of prompt rescue efforts in ensuring the safety of crew members at sea.
