The incident raises questions about safety, insurance implications, and vessel recoverability.
The recent fire incident aboard the Ro-Ro/Container Carrier vessel, Grande Costa d’Avorio, has shed light on the growing risks associated with fires on ships of this type. Shockingly, data reveals that 18% of all incidents on Ro-Ro vessels stem from fires or explosions, with the garage decks being the site for 30% of these occurrences. Given that 90% of fires originate from transported cargo, the dangers posed to crew members, passengers, and the marine environment cannot be underestimated. This incident serves as a poignant further wake-up call, demanding the implementation of preventive measures and meticulous risk management in the industry.
Tragically, the courageous efforts of firefighters battling the blaze on the Grande Costa d’Avorio resulted in the loss of two lives. This incident, involving 1,200 vehicles and 157 containers, raises legitimate concerns about safety protocols and cargo transportation practices within the Ro-Ro/Container Carrier industry. It emphasizes the critical need for a comprehensive evaluation of safety measures to prevent future incidents of this magnitude.
The Grande Costa d’Avorio, built in 2011, is a combination container/roll-on/roll-off (ConRo) vessel operated by the Grimaldi Deep Sea. At the time of the incident, It is important to note that there were no electric vehicles or hazardous cargo reported on board.
As the fire response phase concludes, the focus now shifts towards investigation and salvage operations to assess and mitigate any remaining risks or impacts on port operations. The goal of the salvage operations is to safely remove and recover the affected vessel while minimizing any further environmental impact.
As of Sunday evening, responders were closely monitoring and overhauling the 11th deck of the Grande Costa d’Avorio to address any remaining heat sources. Simultaneously, efforts were made to dewater spaces within the vessel to ensure its stability. However, Throughout the incident, the Port of New York and New Jersey remained open and fully operational, underscoring the resilience and efficiency of the port authorities and personnel involved.
Once the fire has been tamed, the authorities have proceeded with the start of the investigation to identify the causes of the fire, which will require some weeks to figure out the main causes. In the aftermath of a calamity such as this, attention naturally turns to the implications for marine insurance. Given the conditions in which the ship appears it is not to exclude that the society shipowner Grimaldi Group can declare the total loss of the Grande Costa D’Avorio even if in reality the relatively young age makes it a high-value asset and therefore recoverable if the damage count will not entail exorbitant repair costs.
The fire on board the Grande Costa d’Avorio stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize the safety of Ro-Ro/Container Carrier vessels. Shipping companies must continue to adopt stringent preventive measures, enhance cargo management practices, and invest in advanced fire detection and suppression technologies. Collaborative efforts with regulatory authorities are essential in developing stricter regulations and fostering a safety culture that ensures the well-being of crew members, passengers, and the marine environment. Only through a collective commitment can we effectively minimize risks and prevent the recurrence of similar tragedies in the future. This incident highlights even more urging the industry to take immediate action and strive for a safer and more secure maritime environment.