INTERCARGO: Deep concern for the 25 seafarers reported missing aboard ‘NUR ALLYA’ loaded with Nickel Ore in Indonesia

INTERCARGO’s thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the 25 seafarers, crew of the Indonesian Flagged 52,400 dwt bulk carrier “NUR ALLYA” (built 2002) reported missing since 20 August in Indonesian waters loaded with Nickel Ore. INTERCARGO is in communication with various stakeholders to gather further information on the possible casualty. According to our sources, the ship was carrying nickel ore and was on voyage in Indonesian waters en route from Sagea (Gebe island) to Morosi (southeast Sulawesi). Our appreciation and encouragement goes to the Search And Rescue efforts currently being undertaken by the Indonesian SAR Agency BASARNAS. Although the cause of the potential casualty is not known and must be established by prompt investigation by the Indonesian Authorities, INTERCARGO urges all Ship Owners, Operators and Seafarers to exercise extreme caution when accepting, for carriage, Nickel Ore and other cargoes that have the potential to liquefy. We would like to stress 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 expresses its utmost concern and dismay for any responsible parties that might have contributed to this potential tragic loss of 25 lives. Moisture related cargo shifting and incidents on voyage, widely known as liquefaction, continue to be a major concern for dry bulk shipping, as our 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.