Panama-flagged cargo ship refloated off Hualien
Grounded Bulk Carrier Refloated in Hualien
A Panama-flagged bulk carrier that ran aground off the coast of Hualien County on New Year’s Day has been successfully refloated and towed to safety. The operation, completed on Saturday, revealed no signs of oil pollution, according to authorities. The vessel, named CSE Prosperity Express, was escorted by coast guard and tugboats during its return to Hualien Port.
Successful Refloating Operation
The CSE Prosperity Express, operated by Taiwan’s China Steel Express Corp, encountered difficulties on Thursday morning when it lost main engine power while approaching Hualien Port. Strong northeasterly winds then pushed the vessel onto a sandbank, complicating rescue efforts. Fortunately, all 17 crew members, including five Filipinos and 12 Taiwanese, were reported safe throughout the incident.
On Saturday, the Maritime Port Bureau confirmed that the refloating operation was successful. Two tugboats worked under coast guard supervision to maneuver the vessel back into the water. By around 8 PM, the CSE Prosperity Express was safely berthed at Wharf No. 22. Inspections of the hull showed no oil leakage, despite the ship carrying over 200 metric tons of residual fuel. This outcome alleviated concerns about potential environmental damage from the incident.
Challenges and Safety Measures
Rescue operations faced initial delays due to rough seas, which posed significant challenges for the tugboat crews. During the early stages of assistance, one crew member sustained a head injury, highlighting the risks involved in maritime rescue efforts. However, the swift response from the coast guard and the effective coordination with tugboat operators ensured that the situation was managed without further incident.
The successful refloating of the CSE Prosperity Express not only underscores the efficiency of the rescue teams but also reflects the importance of safety protocols in maritime operations. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to ensure that no residual risks remain following the vessel’s return to port.
