In a recent incident on August 22, a Singapore-flagged LNG carrier named BW Lesmes, operated by BW LNG, collided with the oil product tanker Burri while transiting the Suez Canal. The collision occurred in the southbound convoy when the LNG carrier ran aground due to a technical failure, resulting in a sudden stop. This caused the tanker Burri, which was following behind, to run into the LNG carrier.

The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) confirmed that the collision happened at the 144th kilometer of the channel. Fortunately, no injuries, pollution, or significant damage were reported. BW LNG AS, the operator of BW Lesmes, stated that all crew members were safe, and the necessary safety protocols were promptly initiated by the vessel's master.

At the time of the incident, the LNG carrier was not loaded with cargo. Following the grounding, another vessel in the convoy made contact with the BW Lesmes at low speed. However, the operational capabilities and structural integrity of the vessel remained unaffected.

The Suez Canal Authority dispatched four tugs to assist the stranded vessels. The LNG carrier BW Lesmes was successfully refloated on August 23 and is being towed out of the canal for further inspection. It is expected to wait at Suez's outer anchorage.

The product tanker Burri, managed by TMS Tankers, also experienced a malfunction due to the incident and required tug assistance for repairs. As of now, the canal navigation has been restored, and the SCA is providing guidance on the navigation arrangement and timings for the upcoming convoys on August 23.

The Suez Canal, a vital waterway for global maritime trade, faced a disruption due to the grounding of the LNG carrier, but the prompt response of the SCA and other authorities ensured a swift resolution to the situation.