A Portuguese-flagged cargo ship has been detained at the port of Gallipoli following serious marine pollution incidents and safety violations found on board. The ship, identified as the Sider Rodi, was held by the local port authority after authorities discovered multiple deficiencies concerning navigation safety and marine environmental protection.
During the Christmas holidays, the Coast Guard of the Lecce Province maintained its vigilance over marine protection by routinely monitoring coastal areas. On the morning of St. Stephen's Day, the Coast Guard of Gallipoli responded to reports of suspected pollution near the port. Upon inspection, they confirmed the presence of fuel leakage from the foreign-flagged vessel, prompting immediate protective actions against marine pollution.
The Coast Guard mobilized all necessary anti-pollution measures, including deploying patrol boats and personnel at the scene. They found fuel leaking from the Sider Rodi and took samples for analysis. The commander of the ship received a formal warning from the port authority, and containment booms were used to limit the spread of the contamination. Cleanup operations were initiated to remove pollutants from the port waters.
An inspection of the Sider Rodi revealed significant shortcomings related to navigation safety and crew preparedness for emergencies. Crew members had not been adequately trained to address such pollution incidents, raising concerns about their ability to handle similar emergencies effectively.
Due to these grave irregularities, the Coast Guard enacted administrative detention of the vessel. The Sider Rodi is prohibited from resuming navigation until it resolves all identified non-compliance issues, including ensuring crew safety training aligns with maritime standards.
This incident highlights the need for stringent oversight and compliance with maritime regulations to prevent pollution and protect coastal ecosystems. Local authorities emphasized their commitment to monitoring and addressing any environmental threats to the marine and coastal areas.
Local public safety officials reiterated their zero tolerance for marine pollution and stressed the importance of maintaining environmental integrity. The incident exemplifies the proactive measures undertaken by the Coast Guard and port authorities to safeguard marine health, especially during peak holiday seasons when maritime traffic may increase.
Going forward, the Sider Rodi will remain docked until all corrective actions mandated by maritime authorities are completed, ensuring the vessel meets safety standards.
