According to the Quang Ngai Maritime Administration, the Greek-flagged vessel Merchant Mariner, 291,9 meters long with a deadweight of 179,570 tons, was transporting ore from Malaysia to Dung Quat for Hoa Phat Dung Quat Steel Joint Stock Company. The ship has 24 crew members and is represented by Thai Binh Duong Trading and Logistics Company Limited as its shipping agent.

At approximately 11h30 on 18/9, the captain contacted the Quang Ngai Maritime Administration to request entry into the Dung Quat anchorage. Subsequently, the shipping agent reported that the vessel detected water ingress into ballast tanks 4, 5, and 6 on the port side. These compartments hold water to adjust the ship's balance and stability. When the incident was discovered, the vessel was approximately 28 km from the Dung Quat anchorage.

The vessel en route to Dung Quat port. *Quang Ngai Maritime Administration*

Initial assessments suggest the vessel may have struck an underwater rock during its voyage. Currently, the ship remains stable, with no water ingress detected in its cargo holds and no environmental pollution occurring. The captain continues to measure and monitor water levels in the ballast tanks, bilge wells, and empty compartments.

Yesterday, the Quang Ngai Maritime Administration convened a meeting with regulatory agencies, the shipowner, the captain, the cargo owner, port enterprises, insurance companies, and relevant units to implement a safety plan.

The Maritime Administration instructed the shipowner and captain to mobilize available equipment for emergency response, maintain the vessel's stable condition, and arrange for a permanent tugboat.

The shipowner, captain, and Hoa Phat Dung Quat Steel Joint Stock Company were requested to coordinate in developing a cargo discharge plan suitable for the vessel's condition. Cargo unloading will only proceed once safety conditions are ensured and approved by competent authorities.

The units continue to monitor the incident, preparing rescue plans and pollution prevention measures, including scenarios requiring the vessel to be moved from the anchorage or addressing grounding risks.

Pham Linh