Singapore: Drill on Ferry Safety
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) held a ferry emergency exercise (FEREX) at the Regional Ferry Terminal (RFT) at Harbourfront. The FEREX tests the readiness of around 250 personnel from 10 government agencies, three ferry operators and Singapore Cruise Centre Pte Ltd in response to ferry mishaps. A total of 13 vessels and an RSAF helicopter were deployed for the exercise.Khaw Boon Wan, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport, was also present to observe the exercise.The exercise simulated the evacuation of 150 passengers on board a regional ferry, and for the first time, a medical evacuation was conducted.
Regulations for Singapore's Kusu Pilgrimage Season
The 2015 Kusu Pilgrimage season will commence on 13 October 2015 and end on 11 November 2015. During this period, many ferries and harbour craft carrying passengers would cross the East Keppel Fairway when plying between the MSPand Kusu Island (Pulau Tembakul). Mariners shall keep a proper lookout for these craft and navigate with extra caution when in the vicinity of the recommended routes. The traffic movement within MSP has been divided in two routes. The ferries and bumboats shall use the recommended routes as indicated. Masters of harbour craft shall proceed at a safe speed and navigate with caution when approaching MSP and Kusu Island jetties. Latitude (N) / Longitude (E): 01 deg. 13.526’N / 103 deg. Latitude (N) / Longitude (E): 01 deg. 13.236’N / 103 deg.
Collision in Singapore Strait
The Singapore Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) issued a Press Release stating that the bulk carrier SEA LIBERTY and the container vessel ARABIAN EXPRESS collided in the Singapore Strait near Kusu Island. There were no injuries and damage to the vessels was moderate. Personnel are responding to a minor oil spill from the SEA LIBERTY. The MPA is investigating the incident. Source: HK Law
