Deep concern for 25 seafarers aboard missing bulker loaded with nickel ore

The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) says its thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the 25 seafarers aboard the Indonesian-flagged 52,400 dwt bulk carrier Nur Allya (built 2002), reported missing since August 20 in Indonesian waters loaded with nickel ore.

INTERCARGO says it is in communication with various stakeholders to gather further information on the possible casualty.

According to INTERCARGO sources, the ship was carrying nickel ore and was on voyage in Indonesian waters en route from Sagea (Gebe island) to Morosi (southeast Sulawesi).

Although the cause of the potential casualty is not known and must be established by investigation by the Indonesian authorities, INTERCARGO urges all shipowners, operators and seafarers to exercise extreme caution when accepting for carriage nickel ore and other cargoes that have the potential to liquefy. The association stresses the importance of adhering to the provisions in the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC Code) to ensure the safety of lives at sea and the safe transportation of dry bulk cargoes.

INTERCARGO says moisture related cargo shifting and incidents on voyage, widely known as liquefaction, continue to be a major concern for dry bulk shipping, as the Association has highlighted in earlier notes this year. It is indeed frustrating to see a lack of consolidated efforts and commitment from all stakeholders including shippers, receivers and port state authorities at load and discharge ports to eliminate the problem and safeguard the lives of innocent seafarers, despite a heightened awareness of the problem by the industry through various publications produced by the P&I Clubs and Industry associations.