Cameroon's Douala Port Channel Wreck Removal Deadline Looms

• The Black Rhino container ship has been stranded in the Port of Douala-Bonabéri's access channel since a collision on July 11-12.
• Authorities have given the shipowner 15 days to remove the wreck, with an initial deadline for submitting a recovery plan within eight days.
• Specialists from marine salvage firms Wave Group and SMIT are assisting with the operation, which includes stabilizing the vessel and preventing pollution.

The shipowner has been given 15 days by the Cameroonian government to remove the wreck from the channel.

The Black Rhino container ship ran aground in the access channel of the Port of Douala-Bonabéri after a collision on July 11-12. The vessel, carrying approximately 150 containers, has remained stranded since the incident. Authorities are working to prevent further disruption at Cameroon's main maritime gateway.

The shipowner has been given 15 days by the Cameroonian government to remove the wreck from the channel. Within eight days, a final report must be submitted outlining the technical solution and recovery plan. Specialists from marine salvage firms Wave Group and SMIT have arrived in Douala to assist with the operation.

The situation has significant implications for shipping schedules and delivery timelines at the Port of Douala-Bonabéri. Lawyers advising clients with cargo at the port should monitor the situation closely, as further disruption could lead to contractual disputes and other issues. The recovery plan must detail each stage of the operation, including safety measures and pollution prevention.

Lawyers advising clients with cargo at the Port of Douala should monitor the situation and be prepared to adjust shipping schedules if the wreck is not cleared within the given timeframe, as further disruption could impact delivery timelines and potentially lead to contractual disputes.

Source: Original reporting via Cameroon Government Statement