2024 Thua Thien Hue Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Drill

On November 4, 2024, at Pier No. 2 of the Chan May Port in Thua Thien Hue Province, the Thua Thien Hue Maritime Administration led a joint maritime search and rescue drill. The exercise brought together relevant agencies within Thua Thien Hue for intense training to enhance local readiness and coordination in maritime rescue within the provincial port waters.

Director Le Do Muoi of the Vietnam Maritime Administration addresses drill participants.

The drill began with a simulated incident at 1:00 AM. A Vietnamese-flagged cargo ship, Van Tai 09, carrying 2,400 tons of coal with a 12-member crew, was en route from Quang Ninh to Chan May Port. While approaching the designated anchorage, Van Tai 09 collided with a local fishing vessel, TTH 13579 TS, which had anchored without notifying authorities. Due to improper signaling, the fishing boat was unnoticed until it was too late, resulting in a collision that caused significant damage. The fishing vessel suffered a puncture in the engine room, posing serious risks of fire, oil spill, and flooding. Five panicked crew members jumped overboard, while the rest awaited emergency assistance.

Search and rescue teams conduct joint operations in Thua Thien Hue’s port waters.

Upon receiving the distress alert, the Maritime Administration at Chan May coordinated immediate rescue efforts. The cargo ship’s crew quickly deployed life rings and other lifesaving equipment to aid the overboard crew. The Maritime Administration also activated additional emergency support through local SAR regulations, deploying specialized personnel and equipment to the scene. Shortly after, SAR vessel SAR 411 from the Regional Coordination Centre I arrived to manage firefighting efforts on TTH 13579 TS. The comprehensive on-water operation included coordinated evacuation of all crew members, containment of an oil spill, and medical assistance for rescued individuals.

This exercise demonstrated Vietnam’s commitment to the International Maritime Organization’s mission to protect seafarers’ lives across all waters. The 2024 drill is the eighth major exercise coordinated by the Vietnam Maritime Administration, reflecting national goals established in Resolution No. 36-NQ/TW (October 22, 2018) to ensure safety and sustainable development of Vietnam’s maritime economy.

Vice Chairman Hoang Hai Minh of Thua Thien Hue Province presents commendations to outstanding individuals and teams