Bulker Runs Aground in Norfolk, Virginia

Shipspotting The Thailand-flagged bulk carrier Mallika Naree ran into trouble on June 29 as the vessel grounded off Sewells Point in Norfolk, Virginia, according to the United States Coast Guard. The 30,195 dwt vessel lost propulsion in the Elizabeth River, struck buoy #5 and ran soft aground outside the channel. There were no signs of pollution and no injuries were reported. The bulker, which is carrying cement and steel, is not taking on water, according to the USCG. Commercial tug boats arrived on scene and moved the cargo vessel to a nearby anchorage in the Elizabeth River, where it is anchored. AIS data from MarineTraffic shows that the ship is still at anchorage. 45-foot Response Boat-Medium and 29-foot Response Boat-Small crews from Coast Guard Station Portsmouth and a boat crew from Aids to Navigation Team Hampton Roads were dispatched to monitor the situation. We will continue to monitor the situation so as to assure the environment and shipping will not be adversely affected,  Coast Guard Cdr. Kenneth Kostecki, chief of prevention, Sector Hampton Roads, said. Image Courtesy: Shipspotting