After two unsuccessful attempts to refloat the Ever Forward, which ran aground on March 13 in Chesapeake Bay, plan B has been put into motion.
Salvors will now start removing cargo containers from the 12 000-TEU container vessel – and according to information released by the US Coast Guard, this is expected to take about two weeks. The operation will require two crane barges with suitable lifting heights.
Only a portion of the containers on board are expected to be removed.
Previously announced dredging will continue to a depth of 43 feet and will begin as soon as the two cranes can be installed. Once the containers are removed, tugs and pull barges will attempt another refloat, according to a report by gCaptain.
The Coast Guard has made it clear that ensuring the ship’s stability and monitoring for any signs of pollution are top priorities.
According to Evergreen, the cause of the incident is under investigation by the competent authorities.
“After the incident happened, Evergreen immediately activated its emergency response plan and appointed the salvor Donjon-Smit to conduct underwater inspections and design a refloating plan,” the line said in a statement.
“Considering that the complexity of further rescue operations will require more manpower, equipment and costs to refloat the stranded vessel as soon as possible, Evergreen has, for cautionary purposes, declared General Average and nominated Richards Hogg Lindley as the GA adjuster,” the company said last week.
“Evergreen Line urges all cargo interests involved, and joint venture slot users, to provide security bonds and necessary documents according to the adjusting rules that govern GA in order to take delivery of cargo after the vessel is freed and arrives at its future ports of discharge.”
The grounding occurred outside the shipping channel and the vessel has not been blocking navigation since.
