Working Conditions Aboard the Hr-Turag

**Title: collision of Container Vessels Near Chattogram Port** On May 1, 2026, at 9:30 AM, a maritime incident occurred in the outer anchorage of Chattogram port involving two container ships: the 'Maersk Chattogram' (IMO: 9761023) and the 'HR Turag', which was on a voyage from Singapore. The allision happened prior to the piloting of the vessels, as the 'Maersk Chattogram' attempted to overtake the anchored 'HR Turag' on its port side. Unfortunately, this maneuver resulted in the 'Maersk Chattogram' striking the 'HR Turag' with its starboard side stern. As of the morning of May 3, the 'Maersk Chattogram' was successfully escorted to the JCB jetty located in the outer port, while the 'HR Turag' was left moored at coordinates 22° 10' N 091° 47' E. In response to the accident, port authorities executed a controlled navigation corridor from the estuary to the New Mooring Container Terminal, which led to a temporary halt of general vessel movements. This decision was crucial to expedite the handling of a significant backlog of import containers that had been stranded since the allision. The operations saw each vessel supported by three tugboats, with additional vessels on standby, all managed and monitored by the Vessel Traffic Management System. This measure was vital for ensuring safe passage and reducing delays in container processing. Collectively, the two ships carried approximately 2,900 import containers—1,878 on the 'Maersk Chattogram' and roughly 1,000 on the 'HR Turag'. While both vessels were set to offload their cargo, they were not authorized to take on any export shipments due to their unserviceable status, pending assessments and clearance from dockyards for repairs. The collision inflicted damage primarily to the aft section of the 'Maersk Chattogram', resulting in a breach on the starboard side extending several meters above the waterline. Fortunately, the vessel’s engine and steering gear remained operational. Following an internal review, Maersk Bangladesh is expected to announce the next steps after the cargo unloading process. In light of the incident, port safety protocols are being reinforced, which includes having extra tug assistance on standby. Furthermore, the Mercantile Marine Department has initiated an investigation by forming a three-member committee tasked with delivering a report within seven working days. A collaborative investigation, encompassing teams from both the Department of Shipping and the Ministry of Shipping, has also been established to ensure a thorough examination of the incident. For further details, you can view the report along with accompanying visuals here: - [News Report](https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/collision-ctg-port-damaged-vessels-moved-jetty-probe-body-formed-1428491) - [Incident Video](https://m.youtube.com/shorts/aJqm6sbshX0) - [Facebook Coverage](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1012616174622357)