Working Conditions Aboard the Garland

The cargo vessel 'Stove Trader' is currently under investigation following a significant fire that broke out in one of its holds on July 22 while docked at the port of Aqaba. The ship has since been relocated to a general berth, allowing fire-fighting crews to gain full access for a thorough damage assessment. The 'Stove Trader', which arrived in Aqaba from Penang on July 18, was anchored on the Aqaba roads when the incident occurred during offloading operations. A fire was detected in the hold, prompting the crew to swiftly close the cargo area and activate the CO2 fire suppression system. Authorities are diligently investigating the cause of the fire, which erupted while the vessel was carrying an estimated 20,000 tons of timber. An evaluation of the ship’s seaworthiness is currently in progress as part of the ongoing inquiry.

In a recent incident at the Red Sea port of Aqaba, the Norwegian-owned cargo ship Stove Trader, loaded with 20,000 tons of wood, ignited while engaged in unloading operations. Brigadier Farid Sharaa, a spokesperson for Jordan's firefighting division, reported that the cause of the fire, which erupted on Tuesday, is under investigation; however, he expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of arson. Thankfully, there have been no reported casualties or injuries in connection with the blaze. Local firefighters, alongside the ship's crew, are currently working diligently to extinguish the flames. More information regarding the incident is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.