SIMIC

THE distressed 5,028-TEU Singaporean-flagged Shiling has been detained in Wellington and is prohibited from leaving until safety guarantees are provided, reports Fairfax Media.

This 66,000-tonne vessel experienced an engine failure in April, causing it to drift alarmingly close to a shallow shoal in Wellington Harbour.



Although it was initially authorised to depart, it encountered power and steering issues near Farewell Spit at the northern tip of the South Island, prompting a large-scale rescue operation involving air and sea resources.



To ensure the ship's safety, several measures must be undertaken, including repairs, maintenance work, sea trials and departure arrangements.



Additionally, both the vessel's flag state, Singapore, and its classification society need to furnish evidence certifying its operational safety.



Following this incident, a meeting was held between Associate Transport Minister Kiritapu Allan, Wellington Harbourmaster Grant Nalder, Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor, and Greater Wellington Regional Council chairman Daran Ponter to address the matter.



After being towed back to Wellington in May, the Shiling has been detained in the capital city.



Mr Nalder emphasised the significance of acknowledging the risks associated with the Shiling, emphasising that they should not be underestimated.



"There were 24 crew on that ship who didn't know how their day was going to end," said Mr Nalder.