Border Guard forces, in coordination with relevant units, reinforced mooring lines and conducted safety checks for the cargo ship Seatrek. Photo courtesy of the Quảng Trị Border Guard

QUẢNG TRỊ — Authorities in the central province of Quảng Trị have repaired damaged mooring lines on a Singapore-flagged cargo vessel carrying more than 60,000 tonnes of coal at the coal port of Quảng Trạch Thermal Power Plant, ensuring the safety of the vessel and its 21 crew members.

The incident occurred on the afternoon of November 9, when the Seatrek, captained by Shaik Abdulsamad Abdul, suffered a failure in its shore mooring system amid strong winds and rough seas.

The vessel was carrying 60,680 tonnes of coal for Quảng Trạch Thermal Power Plant and had 21 crew members on board.

It completed immigration procedures on October 22 and berthed at the port at 7pm on November 5 to unload its cargo.

Adverse weather conditions caused the mooring lines securing the middle section of the vessel to break, leaving only the lines at the bow and stern intact.

The incident posed a potential safety risk to the vessel and its crew amid rough seas.

Upon receiving the report, Roòn Border Guard Station, under the Quảng Trị Provincial Border Guard Command, deployed five officers and soldiers to work with representatives of Hòn La Maritime Administration and port personnel to reinforce the mooring system.

According to local authorities, the damaged mooring system has been repaired. The Seatrek is continuing to operate its engines to maintain safety while remaining berthed.

Hòn La Maritime Administration has instructed the vessel's owner to maintain safe mooring conditions, closely monitor weather developments and be prepared to respond to any emerging situations.

The Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre Region II has also been asked to monitor the situation and prepare support measures if necessary.

According to the Standing Office of the Quảng Trị Provincial Civil Defence Command, the province's coastal waters have recently experienced scattered showers and thunderstorms, with winds reaching force six to seven and gusts of force eight to nine, resulting in rough seas.

On November 10, northeasterly winds in the waters off Quảng Trị are forecast to reach force six, occasionally force seven, with gusts of force eight. Seas are expected to remain rough.

Waterspouts and strong gusts may occur during thunderstorms, posing risks to maritime transport and fishing activities.

In response, local authorities are continuing to closely monitor weather conditions, maintain communication with vessels and prepare response, rescue and emergency plans.

Fishing boat owners and captains have been advised to take preventive measures to ensure the safety of people and vessels. — VNS