BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
EFFORTS to re-float the grounded MV Vatud Star is still an ongoing task for the owners of the cargo vessel.
The cargo vessel which suffered engine problems was forced to run aground by strong waves and winds battering the coastline at the Kukum in East Honiara yesterday, according to the crew of the vessel.
“We are aware of the cyclone warnings but the ship also suffered engine problems, it can’t start so it was difficult for us to move the vessel for safer anchorage.
“We tried our best over the past 2 days (Tuesday and Wednesday) with no available expertise onboard the vessel.
“Those responsible including the captain and engineer were absent from the vessel for the past two days (this week).
‘There were only four crews on board the vessel and to make matters worse, we have no slightest idea to kick-start the engine.
“The back anchor of the MV Vatud Star also suffered a mechanical problem,” said Luke Rautonu, who is a crew member of MV Vatud Star.
Luke said all crew members were uninjured.
“Two of our crew members managed to jump overboard the vessel and swam to safety at the fishing village shoreline.
“Whilst the other crew and I managed to get ashore using the vessel’s outboard motor engine with our personal belongings like bags, and phones onboard,” he said.
Meanwhile, the business owner of MV Vatud Star and Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. Freda Tuki told Sunday Isles that she had already contacted the Samlinsan Company Limited to help refloat the cargo vessel, however, it depends entirely on fine weather to kick off the operation.
“The operation to refloat MV Vatud Star is not free and the Samlinsan Company Limited will be responsible for this extremely difficult and delicate operation to refloat the vessel,” Hon. Freda Tuki.
