TRICOLOR collision with Kariba: January events

Oil recovery process:

• 09.01.03: AH II leaves site due to heavy weather
• Heavy weather took a toll on mobilization
• 22.01.03: mishap involving anchor-handling tug causes pollution
• Heavy weather prevents recovery of oil from sea surface and diving on site

Pollution reports and preventive actions:

• 23.01.03: SMIT manages to plug leaking tank
• Late 23.01.03: Slick of heavy fuel observed by French authorities
• 24.01.03: Reports of fouled seabirds in France and Belgium
• French, Belgian & Dutch authorities mobilize pollution vessels
• Owners, P&I Club and Smit mobilize – ITOPF experts appointed

Pollution and preventive actions:

• Heavy weather causes dissipation and emulsification of oil at sea
• Moderate pollution on French shoreline (but seabirds and fisheries)
• Belgium and later Holland more affected (seabirds and shoreline)

• 24.1: SMIT employs NORMAND FLOWER
• Sub-sea support/supply vessel with DP
• Oil storage capacity for all remaining oil
• Pollution-fighting vessel ONRUST Stand-by while pumping oil from the wreck