Colombo: Colombo port officials are in the dark about the nature of potentially dangerous materials on board a cargo ship that collided with a bridge in Baltimore, USA, last week. The Singapore-flagged vessel, named Dali, was due to dock in Colombo, Sri Lanka, but concerns are mounting due to a lack of information about its hazardous cargo.
International maritime regulations mandate that ships declare the contents of containers carrying hazardous materials 72 hours before arrival. However, Sri Lankan authorities haven’t received such details from the Dali, leaving them unaware of the potential threats the cargo may pose.
US media reports indicate the Dali was carrying 764 tons of hazardous materials, possibly including corrosives, flammables, and even explosives. These materials are categorized under the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, which dictates their safe transportation.
The lack of information from the Dali is particularly troubling because of the sheer volume of hazardous materials reportedly on board. Sri Lankan officials are likely scrambling to obtain the manifest details as soon as possible. Transparency is crucial to ensure the safe handling and unloading of this potentially dangerous cargo upon arrival.
The incident highlights potential loopholes in regulations or communication breakdowns that could endanger port workers, the environment, and public safety. Sri Lankan authorities will need to work closely with their US counterparts and the shipping company to obtain a complete picture of the Dali’s cargo and take necessary precautions.
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