CPA pilot averts major accident at Chattogram port channel

A potentially catastrophic accident involving an LPG carrier was narrowly averted at the Karnaphuli channel this morning due to the swift action and bravery of a Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) pilot.

The incident occurred at around 10:40am while the LPG-carrying vessel Gas Harmony, measuring 159.9 metres in length, was berthing at the United Tank Terminal jetty when it developed serious mechanical failure, according to a press release issued by CPA.

The vessel was carrying about 5,085 metric tonnes of liquefied gas -- comprising 515 tonnes of propane and 4,570 tonnes of butane.

A senior official of CPA’s Marine Department said the vessel’s engine went out of order while taking berth, causing it to lose control.

As a result, the vessel drifted dangerously close to the adjoining KAFCO ammonia jetty, creating a high-risk situation that could have led to a severe explosion and damage to lives, jetty infrastructure, and the navigation channel, he added.

CPA Director (Admin) Md Omar Faruk said that at the critical moment, CPA’s Assistant Harbour Master, Captain Asif Ahmed, who was on duty aboard the vessel, took immediate and decisive action.

According to the press release, demonstrating exceptional skill and courage, the CPA pilot ordered the use of both the ship’s anchors and tugboats to slow down and redirect the vessel.

The pilot’s timely intervention successfully reduced the ship’s speed, bringing Gas Harmony to a halt at a distance of approximately 1.2 metres from the jetty structure, thereby averting a major disaster, CPA Director Faruk said.

Upon receiving information about the emergency, senior port officials closely monitored the situation through the Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) and provided necessary guidance, the press release added.

Thanks to prompt initial measures and coordinated teamwork, the situation was brought under control without any major accident or damage, the release mentioned.

In recognition of Captain Asif’s courageous role, the master of Gas Harmony later presented him with a letter of appreciation, the release added.