Maritime Security: Concerns Over Tugboat Management

The management of tugboats at the Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA) is currently under scrutiny, particularly regarding the non-operational tugboat “Da Patten.” The MPA has reassured the public that the Da Patten is not involved in any maritime operations.

Maritime expert Alain Malherbe has raised serious concerns about neglect in the maintenance and management of essential equipment necessary for the efficient functioning of the port.

He pointed out that the Da Patten, which is prohibited from sailing, has spent over a month in dry dock, yet the condition of its deck equipment remains “unworthy and unacceptable.”

Malherbe questioned why the planned repairs had not been completed.

He expressed alarm over the potential risk of the non-operational tugboat being returned to service, which could compromise the safety of crew members.

Additionally, Malherbe questioned the terms of the maintenance contract covering the tugboats, stating:

“When a contract is awarded for a boat in dry dock, it should encompass all aspects, from the highest point of the vessel to its lowest.”

He reiterated the MPA’s negligence, mentioning that crew members working on the tugboat have reported that necessary repairs were not carried out after its return from dry dock.

According to Malherbe, crew members are being compelled to perform repairs themselves, which are the responsibility of the shipyard, under the threat of disciplinary action.

He emphasized that the unavailability of a tugboat directly impacts the port’s operations.

“Delays in docking vessels will occur, leading to complaints about the port’s inefficiency. This is why the port is perceived as underperforming.

Every delay related to a tugboat affects the timeframe from a ship’s arrival to its berthing, which directly influences productivity.”

In response to these concerns, the MPA clarified that the Da Patten, classified by Bureau Veritas, was scheduled for planned dry dock work in November 2024, in accordance with the manufacturer’s manual and classification society’s requirements.

However, during the six-week repair period, unforeseen technical issues arose, requiring the involvement of foreign experts.

While waiting for their arrival, the tugboat was removed from the shipyard and positioned at the quay.

The MPA confirmed that the Da Patten is non-operational and is not participating in any maritime operations.

Tugboat services within the port are continuing as normal, handled by the three other operational tugboats managed by the MPA.

Furthermore, one of the government’s objectives is to enhance the economic competitiveness of Mauritius and attract more foreign investment by modernizing and optimizing port infrastructure.

A comprehensive review of the port and its facilities is planned to support and stimulate economic activities linked to the maritime sector.

Source: l’ Express