Taiwan Rescues Crew from Tug Sent to Rescue Grounded Bulker
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 in Taiwan. The vessel, weighing 28,350 deadweight tons and operated by China Steel, was en route from Thailand when it lost power amid strong northeasterly monsoon winds. The incident occurred as the ship awaited a pilot at the port entrance, leading to a precarious situation for its 17-member crew, which includes 12 Taiwanese and five Filipino nationals.
As the *CSE Prosperity Express* drifted toward the shore, it called for assistance. The Hualien Port Authority promptly dispatched the tug *Taiwangang 13205* to aid the grounded vessel. However, the rescue tug encountered its own difficulties when it became entangled in the lines of the bulker. This unfortunate turn of events left the tug disabled and also stranded on the shoreline.
Rescue Operations Complicated by Severe Weather
The situation escalated as the weather worsened, prompting local authorities to initiate a rescue operation. The Coast Guard and local rescue services were dispatched to the scene but quickly determined that high surf conditions made it impossible to reach the crew of the *Taiwangang 13205*. Consequently, the Taiwan Air Service Corps was called in to assist.
A helicopter was deployed to conduct an aerial survey of the area. During this operation, the helicopter successfully airlifted the five crew members from the stranded tug. One crew member sustained a severe head injury and was losing consciousness, necessitating immediate medical attention. The helicopter transferred the injured crew member and the others to waiting ambulances for further care.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Taiwan authorities reported that the *CSE Prosperity Express* and its crew were not in immediate danger. To further assist the grounded vessel, a larger tug was dispatched from Keelung Port, with an expected arrival later that evening.
Background and Implications
The *CSE Prosperity Express*, built in 2006 and registered in Panama, is a significant vessel in the bulk shipping industry. Its grounding highlights the vulnerabilities faced by maritime operations, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The incident underscores the importance of effective communication and coordination among maritime authorities, especially in emergency situations.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of all crew members involved and the successful recovery of both the bulker and the rescue tug. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by maritime operations in regions prone to severe weather, emphasizing the need for robust safety protocols and contingency plans.
