Working Conditions Aboard the Berge-Shari

The cargo ship 'Berge Shari' has been anchored at the Annaba port for an alarming three months since its arrival on June 27, 2024. Originally transporting 25,000 tons of logs from Argentina, the vessel was expected to unload swiftly. However, operational hiccups have prolonged its stay. The primary issue hindering unloading has been the inadequate stowage of the cargo, causing significant delays in operations. Further complicating matters, the mobilization of the necessary handling equipment has been insufficient, leading to sluggish progress in processing the cargo. After this lengthy immobilization, the ship's incurred demurrage has surpassed an astonishing 1.2 million dollars. Initially intended for the port of Skikda, the ship was redirected to Annaba by the EP Annaba team, purportedly in search of a more efficient unloading solution. Unfortunately, this pivot has resulted in unforeseen logistical challenges. To mitigate losses, the client has been allowed to bring in its own handling equipment in an effort to expedite the unloading process. On September 8, 2024, in response to the mounting crisis, the Minister of Transport issued a stern directive to port managers to expedite cargo processing and reduce the duration of ships' stays in port. This directive aligns with the Council of Ministers' instructions dated June 2, 2024, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency. However, outdated handling equipment and limited nighttime maintenance capabilities have hindered the realization of these improvement plans. The Minister has assigned the Serport group to oversee the necessary upgrades. Once a key hub for non-hydrocarbon exports, the Annaba port has experienced a decline in infrastructure quality and is now grappling with significant structural issues. With two out of its five primary quays currently out of service and exhibiting signs of wear, the port's capability to handle the increasing demands of maritime trade is sharply diminished. This decline has pushed many customers toward rival ports, jeopardizing not only the local economy but also the port’s status on both national and international stages. For more information and a visual report, visit: [El Watan](https://elwatan-dz.com/le-navire-berge-shari-immobilise-depuis-trois-mois-au-port-de-annaba-deja-plus-de-12-million-de-dollars-de-surestaries).

On April 24, 2018, at approximately 1:45 a.m., the bulk carrier Berge Shari encountered a significant main engine failure as it navigated the waters near Orleans Island, Quebec, at the coordinates 46° 58.7' N, 70° 49.02' W. Following the incident, the vessel successfully berthed in Quebec at 10:45 a.m. After assessing the situation, the Berge Shari resumed its voyage later that evening at around 10:30 p.m., ensuring minimal disruption to its schedule.

In a significant development for its fleet growth, Singapore's Berge Bulk has welcomed the Berge Shari, marking its fifth Handysize newbuilding acquisition. The vessel was officially delivered on September 16, 2016, from Hakodate Shipyard, located in Namura, Japan. The Berge Shari adds to the company's strategic expansion into the Handysize sector, being the latest addition to a series of six 34,000 dwt vessels that exemplify Berge Bulk's commitment to diversify its operations in the dry bulk shipping market.