Loss Prevention Advice
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Vessels heading to Indian ports to load iron ore fines and other Group A cargoes should note the revised procedure for loading, sailing clearance and surveys.
Following the very recent loss of the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Ocean Winner, the Principal Officer, MMD Kolkata has, with immediate effect, imposed additional controls on the loading and sailing of vessels carrying iron ore fines, sand and other Group A (liquefiable) cargoes from ports under Kolkata Port jurisdiction, this would include Kolkata, Haldia, Budge Budge, Diamond Harbour, Paradip, Dhamra, Gopalpur and Port Blair.
Vessels loading, or due to load, such cargoes at these ports — Paradip in particular — should anticipate additional permissions, port-conducted risk assessments, mandatory multi-stage surveyor attendance. Detailed procedures are stated to be under preparation and the position is evolving.
The controls invoke the existing framework under MS Notice 9 of 2010 (safe loading, stowage and carriage of iron ore fines in fair and foul season), read with the shipper’s declaration requirement the authority attributes to MS Notice 2 of 2017. Para 5(iv) of MS Notice 9 of 2010 sets out port/terminal responsibilities, including covering of stockpiles liable to be affected by monsoon precipitation.
Revised requirements as presently notified:
As communicated by the Principal Officer, MMD Kolkata:
(a) Explicit prior loading permission — permission must be obtained from the PO, MMD Kolkata before commencement of loading of the subject cargoes;
(b) Explicit departure / sailing permission — separate permission from the PO must be obtained prior to departure;
(c) Port risk assessment — a Risk Assessment is to be carried out by the port and submitted to the PO for any liquefiable cargo, addressing at least expected rainfall, jetty condition (open or closed) and cargo storage arrangements;
(d) Shipper’s declaration — to be submitted as per MS Notice 2 of 2017;
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Below you will find a weekly report dated 26 August 2026, covering the period of 20 to 26 August, where the following incidents were reported:
- 0 maritime security incidents in West Africa in the last 7 days
- 2 maritime security incidents in the Indian Ocean/Middle East in the last 7 days
- 1 Somalia-based piracy incident reported in the last 7 days.
Full advisory at the following link.
https://britanniapandi.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/ARC-Weekly-Report-26.08.26.pdf
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OFAC have issued a warning of the sanctions risks for both US and non-US persons in the payment of “tolls” or other forms of benefit to Iran in return for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Full advisory at the following link.
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A local correspondent, has issued a circular warning of an increase in fender damage claims at Alexandria and El Dekheila ports in Egypt, outlining precautionary measures for vessel operators to help minimise the risk of damage claims while calling at Egyptian ports.
As explained, particular care is warranted when berthing and unberthing vessels at Alexandria and El Dekheila Ports, Egypt, where allegations of damage to quay fender systems may arise following vessel operations.
The berths at Alexandria and El Dekheila are fitted with various types of marine fender systems, depending on the berth, terminal and the period in which the berth was constructed or upgraded. Most are equipped with cylindrical rubber fenders.
A number of fenders at both ports have reportedly been found to be old, cracked or inadequately maintained. This can make it difficult to establish whether any damage identified after a vessel’s call was caused by the vessel or was pre-existing.
El Dekheila presents additional circumstances that may increase the risk of fender damage allegations. The port entrance faces north, while the western breakwater is relatively short, allowing swell to reach the quays during rough weather. Vessels alongside may consequently surge against the fenders despite having been properly moored.