We are here again to inform you about another unfortunate maritime incident. This time the news from China, On August 9th, at 1:40PM local time at Ningbo Port Phase 3 Terminal in China, one of the biggest shipping lines, Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation’s container ship, YM Mobility experienced an explosion and after-fires with shockwaves felt across kilometers away from YM Mobility’s docked position.
What caused the YM Mobility incident?
Yang Ming reported that the explosion originated from a reefer container carrying dry goods; speculation suggested lithium-ion batteries or organic peroxides might have been present, both highly flammable substances. No casualties were reported at the Ningbo Port, and three fire-extinguishing tug boats were sent to respond and extinguish any flare-ups at once. At this point, initial findings of an ongoing investigation indicate that an explosion occurred within a container carrying dangerous goods.
What are the impacts of the incident?
This unfortunate incident caused some delays in loading and unloading activities, disrupting container trade during the peak shipping season. The combination of existing congestion at major Asian ports and this incident has extended container delays, leading to degraded ocean schedules and extended dwell times; it’s advised to choose alternate sea routes or prepare for potential rerouting of shipments as a result of these circumstances.
Shipsgo’s Actions on the YM Mobility Incident
We closely and carefully followed the incident at the Ningbo Port with our expert operation team from the first moment it occurred. After carefully investigating the vessel and the containers it carries, we informed our customers who had shipments on the ship.
We have also reached out to our customers whose shipments will be using this route and who may be potentially affected. We hope that no one will be significantly affected by the negative effects of this accident. We will closely follow the process for our customers’ affected and potentially affected containers.
