Officials said some containers from the MV Popo fell into the sea after the collision
In this handout photo, taken and released by the Karachi Port Trust, a container ship docks at the Karachi port in Karachi on May 29, 2024. Photo: KPT
ISLAMABAD:
The government launched an investigation on Friday after two foreign vessels collided near the entrance to Karachi Port on Thursday evening, while authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported in the incident.
Karachi Port Trust (KPT) marine team carried out a rescue operation after the collision near Fairway Buoy outside Karachi Port.
“The collision took place between 7.30pm and 8pm on May 28 near Fairway Buoy outside Karachi Port,” KPT said in a statement.
Officials said the Liberia-flagged container ship MV Popo, which had departed from berths 8 and 9, collided with CS NIWA/MV NIWA, a UAE-flagged cable repair vessel.
According to port authorities, MV NIWA was waiting to board a pilot and was moving slowly towards the channel at the time of the incident.
Officials said some containers from the MV Popo fell into the sea after the collision. However, no loss of life or injuries were reported.
Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry ordered an inquiry into the incident to determine the causes.
He said the accident had occurred outside Karachi Port’s jurisdictional limits and he had sought a report on the matter.
“I have sought a report on the maritime accident,” the minister said while praising the port staff for their timely response and effective management.
“No injuries or casualties have been reported in the collision between the two foreign vessels,” he added.
The minister said the accident happened due to the negligence of the drivers of both the vessels.
“The affected cable laying vessel has been safely brought to port with the assistance of KPT tugs,” 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 in ensuring maritime safety.
