The “Ever Given” released after nearly a week stranded in the Suez Canal is today’s headline. And since the vessel was blocked last Tuesday, it has created an unprecedented maritime jam. It has caused the diversion of more than 200 ships and the paralysis of assets worth 9,500 million euros a day. Therefore, refloating the ship was a priority.
Finally, after six days. the maritime service provider Inchcap shipping has confirmed that the Ever Given has been refloated this Monday morning at 4:30 AM.
Let us remember that the Panamanian container ship of 400 meters in length and 224,000 tons of cargo capacity owned by the Taiwanese company Evergreen, was stranded and crossed last Tuesday. This was due to strong winds and a sandstorm, according to the Canal Authority.
With the help of 10 giant trailers operating from four different directions, the Ever Given has been released from the blockade in which it has remained since last Tuesday. According to the head of the Suez Canal Authority, Osama Rabi, the ship’s positioning has been restored to 80% in the right direction. In addition, the stern of the ship has moved 102 meters from the shore.
To rescue the container ship, maneuvers have been paused until the water flow increases. Sufficient level must be reached to be able to reposition it in the middle of the channel.
As for when maritime traffic will resume, the date is unknown. By now, the blockade generated by the Ever Given in this seaway amounted to at least 369 ships yesterday. And this road is one of the busiest in the world and through which 10% of world trade passes.
Much of the oil from the Persian Gulf passes through the Suez Canal to Europe. And to a lesser extent to the United States and other parts of the world. It is also the gateway to Europe for many goods from Asia, such as automotive and electronic components.
According to the consultancy Sea-Intelligence, it is estimated that if the Canal plug were to be prolonged, the world container transport capacity would be reduced by 6%. This would be equivalent to 1.48 million fewer containers, which could have a significant impact on supply chains.