Salvage crews are now on their way to a jet fuel tanker that was involved in a serious collision off the coast of England. The incident, which occurred when the Portuguese-flagged container ship Solong struck the tanker Stena Immaculate, has raised significant concerns about a possible environmental disaster. Following the crash, both crews abandoned ship, leading to a rescue operation that successfully brought 36 people ashore. Tragically, one crew member from the Solong remains unaccounted for.
The Stena Immaculate, which was anchored at the time of the collision, carries jet fuel intended for the U.S. military. The impact resulted in large fires, explosions, and the release of fuel into the surrounding sea. Aerial footage captured on Tuesday revealed a considerable hole in the hull of the Stena Immaculate, alongside visible fire damage. While the flames had mostly died down by then, the Solong was not visible in the images.
The Dutch marine company Boskalis has been tasked with salvaging the tanker and has dispatched four vessels equipped with foam and extinguishing agents to the scene. The British government has also prepared various pollution control measures, including oil dispersants and containment booms, while assessing the potential environmental impact through collaboration with relevant agencies and environmental groups. As investigations proceed, questions remain regarding the circumstances of the collision and the failure of safety systems aboard both ships. The Stena Immaculate, which was anchored off Immingham, was reportedly carrying a substantial amount of jet fuel.
There is also concern about the cargo of sodium cyanide and alcohol on the Solong, which could pose further ecological risks. The crash occurred in a heavily trafficked waterway, sparking a major rescue response involving aircraft and lifeboats. While initial investigations will be conducted by Britain’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch, ultimate responsibility for the inquiry rests with U.S. and Portuguese authorities, representing the respective flags of the vessels involved.