In a dramatic turn of events, the Indonesian freighter Noah Satu (IMO 9313620) caught fire and sank off the coast of Tuban, East Java, sending ripples through the maritime community. The incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and vigilant maintenance for vessels navigating busy sea routes.
A Fiery Ordeal
At approximately 1400 hours local time, Noah Satu reported an engine room fire while transiting with a cargo of corn bound for the port of Ciwandan. The vessel was on a westbound course across the Java Sea when the fire broke out, threatening both the ship and its crew.
Swift Response
The nearby coast guard station in Tanjung Perak acted promptly, dispatching a patrol ship to the scene. Simultaneously, the local port authority sent the commercial tug Mitra Anugerah 27 to assist in the rescue operation. Over the course of an intense eight-hour response, the coordinated efforts of the coast guard and the port authority ensured the safety of the crew.
The coast guard’s response boat successfully rescued the captain and chief engineer, while the tug evacuated 12 additional crew members. Among them, an oiler who sustained minor burns was swiftly taken to Tuban for medical treatment.
A Statement from the Authorities
Jon Kenedi, Director of the Maritime and Coast Guard Unit (KPLP), lauded the rapid and effective handling of the situation. “We are committed to ensuring shipping safety and security and handling this incident quickly and effectively. We also appreciate the efforts and coordination of various parties in dealing with this incident,” Kenedi stated.
The Sinking of Noah Satu
Despite the valiant rescue efforts, the Noah Satu ultimately sank along with its cargo of corn. Thankfully, no pollution was reported in the aftermath, averting an environmental crisis.
A Troubled History
The Noah Satu was not a stranger to controversy. The 20-year-old vessel had a checkered maintenance history, marked by numerous inspection deficiencies. In 2016, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority identified significant safety risks and banned the ship after it failed two port state control inspections within a year. Since then, Noah Satu had not been inspected by a foreign port state control team and had only operated within Indonesian waters since at least 2020.
Conclusion
The incident of the Noah Satu serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards and regular inspections for maritime vessels. The swift response and coordination by Indonesian authorities averted a potential disaster, ensuring the safety of the crew and preventing environmental damage. However, the vessel’s troubled past highlights ongoing challenges in maritime safety management.
As the maritime community reflects on this incident, it is clear that continued vigilance and adherence to safety protocols are essential in safeguarding lives and the environment at sea.
