Capesize Aground in Suez Canal, Convoys Delayed

Wikimedia A Panamanian-flagged Capesize bulk carrier identified as New Katerina run aground yesterday in the Suez Canal having lost steering gear. GAC Egypt confirmed to World Maritime News that the stricken ship remains aground today as well. As disclosed, the incident has caused delays in convoy movements, however; the canal remains open to traffic. The tugs of the Suez Canal Authority have been sent to the scene and are trying to refloat the ship, which has sustained a breach in its fore part and has reportedly started taking in water, local media said. There were no reports of injuries or pollution. The 1997-built bulk carrier, managed by Greek company Polembros Shipping, was en route from Yuzhniy, Ukraine to Qingdao, China when the incident occurred. World Maritime News Staff