Tanker Salvage Underway in Houston

Responders have begun to execute salvage plans for the damaged tanker Carla Maersk, Wednesday, following a collision that occurred Monday in the Houston Ship Channel, the Central Texas Coastal Area Committee (CTCAC) reported.

The plans include utilizing high-density foam to suppress any flammable vapor seeping from the punctured tanks. Once the foam is in place, responders will monitor the air for any flammable vapors. If deemed safe, responders will commence the removal of liquid cargo. Once the liquid cargo has been removed and the structural integrity of the vessel has been deemed safe for movement, the Carla Maersk will be moved from the Houston Ship Channel to a safe berthing area.

Air and water tests continue to show no public health or environmental concerns, responders said. To date, more than 500 air and water tests have been conducted, equaling approximately 50-70 tests per hour.

The Conti Peridot was moved to City Dock 21 on Tuesday afternoon with the assistance of two tugboats.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation.