CMA CGM Boxship Knocks Crane Off Rails at Livorno: Port Halts Operations
A 272-metre Malta-flagged containership collided with a dockside crane at Italy’s Port of Livorno.
A Malta-flagged container vessel collided with a dockside crane at Italy’s Port of Livorno on October 21, disrupting operations at one of the terminal’s key berths. The 272-metre CMA CGM Pointe Noire struck the crane while maneuvering into position, leaving the facility with only two of its six cranes available for use.
The incident occurred as the ship, assisted by two tugboats, approached its berth at Terminal Darsena Toscana (TDT). The vessel’s bridge made contact with the boom of a crane that had been parked alongside the quay for maintenance. The impact dislodged the crane from its rails, causing it to tilt toward the water. While the ship sustained only minor damage, the crane’s removal was scheduled for the following week, with repairs expected to take several months.
No injuries were reported in the collision. However, the terminal’s container-handling capacity has been reduced, though officials have not yet specified whether the incident will cause delays in cargo operations. The damaged unit was one of six identical Paceco cranes at TDT, and its loss has significantly limited the terminal’s ability to load and unload vessels.
Port Authorities Secure Area and Launch Investigation: Crane
The Port Authority responded by restricting access to a section of the waterfront near quay 14, between bollards 15 and 29, extending 80 metres from the quay edge. The measure was implemented to secure the damaged crane and maintain safe navigation in the area. Technicians from the crane manufacturer were called in to assess the damage, and the terminal submitted a stability report to authorities.
TDT General Manager Marco Mignogna confirmed that the crane’s position during maintenance had been approved by pilots and the Maritime Authority. However, the exact cause of the collision remains unclear. The CMA CGM Pointe Noire has been detained pending further checks, and its captain has been summoned to provide details about the maneuver. Both the Port Authority and the Coast Guard are investigating the incident to determine responsibility.
While the terminal continues to operate with reduced crane capacity, no official statements have been made regarding potential delays for incoming or outgoing shipments. The vessel remains under detention as authorities complete their assessment.
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