Last Friday, 22nd November, there was a large oil pipeline explosion near the port of Qingdao in China. The disaster occurred in the Huangdao district, and killed 35 people.
Two vessels were alongside the wharf and discharging at the time and there were a further two vessels waiting in anchorage to discharge.
Following the explosion most vessels changed their destination port ensuring no backlog would occur.
The explosion created a marine pollution issue in Jiaozhou Bay that is currently being treated. It is expected to take some time to clean as an operation of this size involves at least 24 cleaning vessels, with ten fishing boats and one salvage boat.
The main delays are being felt by oil tankers, who are currently being ordered to remain at anchorage. Other bulk, general cargo and container terminals are operating normally.
EES will advise you immediately if your cargo has been caught up in this issue.
