{
  "id": 5536263,
  "title": "Precautions against liquefaction when loading iron ore fines in India",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/precautions-against-liquefaction-when-loading-iron-ore-fines-in-india",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-09-04T10:00:43.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Hellenic Shipping News",
    "slug": "hellenic-shipping-news",
    "url": "https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/precautions-against-liquefaction-when-loading-iron-ore-fines-in-india/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Gard is cautioning Members and clients regarding the substantial risks associated with bulk cargo liquefaction, particularly in relation to iron ore fines shipments from ports on India's east coast. The heightened concern stems from a recent tragic incident involving the loss of life on a bulk carrier in the Bay of Bengal, where the vessel was carrying iron ore fines originating from Paradip. Although the exact cause of the vessel's capsize and sinking remains undetermined, authorities have noted liquefaction as a potential contributing factor. Gard has also come across several other cases involving iron ore fines loaded in the same region, where liquefaction is suspected. Furthermore, a case involving liquefaction of iron ore fines loaded in Brazil has also been reported. The issue of cargo liquefaction, which can lead to cargo shifting and vessel instability, has been a persistent concern for bulk carriers for many years. According to Intercargo's Bulk Carrier Casualty 2024, such incidents can have catastrophic consequences, resulting in loss of life, vessels, and significant environmental and commercial impacts. Despite comprehensive international regulations and industry guidance, Gard continues to encounter situations where cargo is loaded in an excessively wet condition, often due to insufficient moisture management practices and doubts about the reliability of cargo sampling and testing methods that form the basis of shipper declarations. Group A shipments from India are predominantly exported via major ports, with many cargo stockpiles stored in open yards, often lacking adequate protection, and exposed to weather conditions during transportation by road, rail, or barge. These circumstances can exacerbate moisture levels, surpassing the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML). Concerns have also been raised regarding the representativeness of cargo samples taken from shore stockpiles, as they may not accurately reflect the cargo ultimately loaded onto ships. The Transportable Moisture Limit (TML) and other regulatory requirements, as well as local precautions, have been outlined by Gard. The Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) Kolkata is believed to have introduced additional safety measures for Group A cargoes, although these have not yet been officially published through a circular. Members are advised to consult their local agents for the most up-to-date requirements and guidance applicable to their specific loading ports. Consulting with a local surveyor is also recommended to assist the master of the vessel. Gard's geofencing alerts are currently limited to the vessels owned by Gard and are not capable of detecting vessels for charterer Members. Thus, charterers are urged to notify Gard whenever they fix their vessels for loading iron ore fines or other Group A cargoes. The primary purpose of these geofencing alerts is not to monitor Member activity but to provide support by highlighting the risks and preventive measures associated with carrying cargoes susceptible to liquefaction. Regular checks on cargo moisture content and adherence to approved moisture management, sampling, and testing procedures are crucial. The IMSBC Code mandates that bilges should be inspected, and the cargo's surface should be regularly examined for signs of liquefaction during the voyage. Indicators of potential liquefaction include cargo shifting, alterations in the stow's profile, softening at the edges or surface water, and the formation of slurry. If there are suspicions of liquefaction occurring, the master should seek third-party expert assistance and take appropriate actions to minimize the energy input into the cargo, such as avoiding beam seas. Early intervention can be crucial in averting a decline in the vessel's stability condition.",
  "summary": "Gard once again alerts Members and clients to the significant risks associated with bulk cargo liquefaction. The recent tragic loss of life of crew on a bulk carrier in the Bay of Bengal has renewed concerns regarding the safety of some iron ore fines shipments, particularly from ports on the east coast of India. While ...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}