Maritime Mayhem on the Mekong: Collision Causes Partial Sinking and Oil Spill Near Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – April 25, 2025 – A nighttime collision on the Long Tau River near Ho Chi Minh City has resulted in significant damage and disruption after two cargo vessels, the container ship KMTC Surabaya and the bulk carrier Glengyle, collided late Thursday.

 

🛑 The Glengyle sustained a breached hull and subsequent partial flooding, leading to its partial sinking. The KMTC Surabaya suffered damage to its bow and also took on water, though its condition is reported as stable. Authorities confirm no injuries to crew members on either vessel.

 

⚠️ However, the incident has triggered an oil spill, prompting immediate containment and clean-up efforts. The extent of the spill and its potential environmental impact are currently being assessed. River traffic in the crucial waterway has been significantly hampered, causing delays and congestion.

 

Salvage operations are underway, operating under a Lloyd’s Open Form agreement. A General Average has been declared for the Glengyle, meaning stakeholders with cargo aboard the vessel will share in the financial responsibility for the loss, according to maritime law.

 

An official investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the collision. Concerns are mounting regarding navigational safety within the increasingly congested Long Tau River. Authorities are expected to review and potentially revise traffic management procedures to prevent future incidents.

 

Photo: Cargo Ship/YouTube