In the early hours today, the Chalkis Port Authority was informed of a berthing incident between two cargo ships (C/S) within the commercial port of Chalkis.
Specifically, a C/S of Greek flag, during its inbound process, berthed with its starboard side against the starboard side of a C/S of Italian flag, which was conducting unloading of its cargo. No injuries were reported from the incident and no marine pollution or water ingress into the ships was observed.
Immediately, personnel from the Local Ship Inspection Branch (T.K.E.P.) of Chalkis conducted an inspection, during which material damages to both ships were ascertained. By the Central Port Authority of Chalkis, which is conducting the preliminary investigation, the departure of both C/S was prohibited until the submission of a certificate of seaworthiness by the attending surveyor.
Furthermore, the captain of the C/S of Greek flag was arrested for violation of articles 291, 306 & 378 of the Penal Code (P.K.), in combination with article 225 of the Legislative Decree /73 (Code of Public Maritime Law – K.D.N.D.).
